scorch
4 synonyms and 0 antonyms for scorch, grouped by meaning and by how common each one is.
Verb — To burn the surface of something, discolouring or damaging it without destroying it completely.
Synonyms
Less common
Still standard English, but they carry more weight.
Rare, literary or technical
Precise, but they will stand out — check the sense before using one.
How to use scorch
The word patterns that sound natural to a native speaker.
Etymology
From Middle English scorchen, likely an alteration of an earlier form related to Old Norse skorpna, "to shrivel up."
Full origin of scorch →Frequently asked questions
What does “scorch” mean?
The word “scorch” means to burn the surface of something, discolouring or damaging it without destroying it completely. In plain terms, to burn something on the surface, or the burn mark itself; also used loosely for extreme heat or blistering criticism.
How do you pronounce “scorch”?
“Scorch” is pronounced skawch (/skɔɹt͡ʃ/ in IPA).
How do you use “scorch” in a sentence?
Here is “scorch” used in a sentence: “The iron scorched a mark into the shirt.”
What part of speech is “scorch”?
Depending on how it is used, “scorch” can be a verb and a noun.
Where does the word “scorch” come from?
The word “scorch” comes from Middle English. From Middle English scorchen, likely an alteration of an earlier form related to Old Norse skorpna, "to shrivel up.".
How many meanings does “scorch” have?
“Scorch” has 2 distinct senses listed in this dictionary. The most common is: to burn the surface of something, discolouring or damaging it without destroying it completely.