Sear

/sɪr/

Meaning & Definition

noun

the act of searing something, particularly cooking.

The sear on the salmon brought out its rich flavor.

verb

to burn or scorch the surface of something with a sudden, intense heat.

She decided to sear the steak quickly to lock in the juices.

to dry or wither (as in plants or crops) due to heat or lack of water.

The intense sun would sear the leaves if they weren't given enough water.

to produce a sensation of intense heat or pain.

The hot sand seared his feet as he walked along the beach.

Middle English 'sere', meaning to dry up or wither; related to the Old English 'sēar' meaning 'to dry'.

sear in one's memory

To engrave or impress something indelibly in one's mind.

sear flesh

To burn or scorch the skin.

scorch

To burn the surface of something slightly, causing it to change color or texture.

char

To burn something so that it becomes blackened or reduced to charcoal.

To reject or dismiss someone or something harshly.

He really seared that guy in the meeting!

To perform an intense workout that leaves one feeling exhausted.

That gym session really seared me!