sear
Sear (verb) means to burn or scorch the surface of something with intense heat. Example: “Sear the steak on high heat for two minutes on each side.”
How to use sear
Learner’s notesIn plain EnglishMost often used in cooking, meaning to brown the outside of meat quickly over high heat.
Don't confuse with "seer" (someone who predicts the future) — they sound identical.
Word forms
searer comparative, more sear comparative, seared past tense, sears plural, sears plural, Sears plural, sears singular, searest superlative, most sear superlative
Fill the gap
Can you complete this real example?
_____ the steak on high heat for two minutes on each side.
Etymology
From Old English sēar ("dry, withered"), from a Proto-Germanic root meaning "dry, parched."
Related words
Rhymes for sear
See all rhymes for sear →Frequently asked questions
What does “sear” mean?
The word “sear” means to burn or scorch the surface of something with intense heat. In plain terms, most often used in cooking, meaning to brown the outside of meat quickly over high heat.
How do you pronounce “sear”?
“Sear” is pronounced seer (/sɪɚ/ in IPA).
How do you use “sear” in a sentence?
Here is “sear” used in a sentence: “Sear the steak on high heat for two minutes on each side.”
What part of speech is “sear”?
Depending on how it is used, “sear” can be a verb and an adjective.
Where does the word “sear” come from?
The word “sear” comes from Old English. From Old English sēar ("dry, withered"), from a Proto-Germanic root meaning "dry, parched.".
How many meanings does “sear” have?
“Sear” has 2 distinct senses listed in this dictionary. The most common is: to burn or scorch the surface of something with intense heat.