Ash: meaning, definitions and examples

Ash in the context of cigarettes refers to the gray or black residue that forms as a cigarette burns. This word is typically used when talking about smoking.

• He flicked the ash from his cigarette into the ashtray

Dust refers to tiny particles of matter in general, not necessarily from burning. It can accumulate on surfaces in homes or in the air, often causing allergies.

• She wiped the dust off the bookshelf with a damp cloth

Soot is the black, powdery substance produced by incomplete combustion, often associated with fossil fuels. It tends to have negative connotations due to its association with pollution and respiratory issues.

• After years of burning coal, the chimney was coated with thick layers of soot

Cinders are partially or nearly burned pieces of coal or wood that are left after a fire. They are not fully transformed into ash and can still be hot and glowing.

• The cinders in the fireplace were still glowing hours after the fire went out

In American English, 'ash' can also refer to the remains left after a fire, similar to the first 'ash' entry.

• The fireplace was filled with ash after the logs had burned overnight.
• The ash from the volcano spread across the village, covering everything in a dark gray layer.

Gray is a neutral color that is a mix of black and white. It describes anything from a light to a dark shade of gray.

• The sky was overcast with gray clouds, suggesting an impending storm.
• His hair was turning gray with age, giving him a more distinguished look.

Silver refers to the shiny, metallic color of the precious metal. It can also describe anything with a gleaming, metal-like finish or a bright gray color.

• She wore a necklace made of silver that glimmered in the sunlight.
• The car was painted in a sleek silver color, making it look futuristic.

Charcoal is used to describe the black, brittle substance obtained from burning wood in the absence of air. It can also be used to describe a dark gray to black color.

• We used charcoal to grill the steaks at the barbecue.
• She wore a charcoal dress that contrasted beautifully with her silver jewelry.

Remains of burned material, often used in the context of fireplaces, cigarettes, or volcanic eruptions.

• The fire left only ash behind.
• Cigarette ash fell onto the carpet.

To destroy or damage something with fire. It's a general term used for the process of combustion.

• Be careful not to burn your hand on the stove.
• He burned the documents in the fireplace.

To burn something completely to ashes, often used in the context of waste disposal or in a formal setting.

• The hospital incinerates medical waste to prevent contamination.
• They incinerated confidential papers to maintain security.

To burn slightly, often used in the context of cooking or describing slight damage from heat, frequently with a negative connotation.

• The sun can scorch your skin if you don’t wear sunscreen.
• She left the iron on the shirt too long and it scorched.