Other

sear

Syllabification: (sear)

Pronunciation: /si(ə)r/

Definition of sear

[with object]

burn or scorch the surface of (something) with a sudden, intense heat:the water got so hot that it seared our lips figurativea sharp pang of disappointment seared her
[no object] (of pain) be experienced as a sudden, burning sensation:a crushing pain seared through his chest
brown (food) quickly at a high temperature so that it will retain its juices in subsequent cooking: (as adjective seared)seared chicken livers
archaic cause to wither.
archaic make (someone’s conscience, heart, or feelings) insensitive.

Origin:

Old English sēar (adjective), sēarian (verb), of Germanic origin

Definition of sear in the British & World English dictionary

Nearby words