An Etymological Dictionary of Astronomy and Astrophysics

1. (v.intr.) To undergo combustion (fast or slow).
   To undergo fusion or fission.
   

2. (v.tr.) To cause to undergo combustion.
   To use as fuel or as a source of heat.

Etymology (EN): Burn, from M.E. bernen, brennen, combination of O.E. beornan (intr.) and bærnan (tr.), both from P.Gmc. *brenwanan; cf.
Goth. brannjan, O.H.G. brennen.

Etymology (PE): Suxtan, suzândan, from Mid.Pers. sôxtan, sôzidan “to burn;” Av. base saoc- “to burn, inflame” sūcā “brilliance,” upa.suxta- “inflamed;” cf. Skt. śoc- “to light, glow, burn,” śocati “burns,” (caus.) socayati, śuc- “flame, glow,” śoka- “light, flame;” PIE base *(s)keuk- “to shine.”