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Charred Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

๐Ÿ”ฅ
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charred

[tสƒษ‘หrd ]

Definitions

Context #1 | Adjective

cooking

burnt and blackened by fire

Synonyms

blackened, burnt, scorched.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
charred

When something is partially burned, especially food, and it has blackened surfaces but might still be edible.

  • The edges of the burger were charred from the grill
  • The chef liked the chicken a little bit charred
burnt

When something is overcooked or fully destroyed by fire. This word often has a negative connotation, especially when talking about food.

  • He forgot to set the timer and the cookies got burnt
  • The toast is completely burnt; we can't eat it
blackened

When something is entirely or almost entirely turned black through burning, often used in cooking for specific recipes like blackened fish.

  • She prepared a delicious blackened salmon for dinner
  • The barbecue had blackened the vegetables nicely
scorched

When something is superficially burned or singed, often without being entirely ruined. This term is also used for non-food items like clothes or grass.

  • The sun scorched the grass in the backyard
  • The iron was too hot and it scorched the shirt

Examples of usage

  • The charred remains of the campfire were still smoldering.
  • The charred steak was not edible.
Context #2 | Verb

cooking

burn something so it becomes blackened

Synonyms

blacken, burn, scorch.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
charred

This word is used to describe something that has been burned on the surface, often used in cooking to indicate a desirable level of browning. It implies that the item is blackened but not completely destroyed.

  • The steak was perfectly charred on the outside but still juicy inside
  • The wooden fence was charred by the fire, giving it a rustic look
burn

This is a general term for damaging or destroying something with fire or extreme heat. It can also describe the sensation of pain caused by heat.

  • Be careful not to burn yourself on the hot stove
  • The candle burned all night, leaving wax all over the table
scorch

Scorch is often used to describe something that has been slightly burned or singed, typically leaving it brown or discolored rather than completely blackened. It's common in contexts like laundry, cooking, and even nature.

  • The iron was too hot and scorched the shirt
  • The summer sun scorched the grass to a yellow-brown
blacken

Blacken is typically used to describe something that has turned black due to intense heat or burning. It can also be used in a negative sense to describe tarnishing someone's reputation.

  • The toast was left in the toaster too long and blackened
  • Scandals can blacken a politicianโ€™s good name

Examples of usage

  • The chef charred the vegetables on the grill.
  • The fire charred the wooden beams of the house.

Translations

To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.

Interesting Facts

Culinary Arts

  • Charred food can add a smoky flavor, which is why grilling meats often brings out delicious taste.
  • Some chefs intentionally char vegetables to create new textures and enhance flavors in dishes.
  • Barbecue is a cooking method that often includes charring meat to get that tasty, crispy exterior.

Safety and Health

  • Consuming charred food regularly may pose health risks, as it can contain substances that are harmful in large amounts.
  • The process of charring can create acrylamide, a chemical that forms during cooking at high temperatures.

Environmental Science

  • Charred wood can be used as biochar, a form of charcoal that improves soil health and captures carbon.
  • In wildfires, many plants and trees may appear charred, but some can actually thrive post-fire due to nutrient-rich ash.

Literature and Art

  • In literature, charred remains are often used as a symbol of loss or destruction in dramatic narratives.
  • Artists may use charred materials in their work to convey themes of resurrection or transformation.

Cultural Practices

  • In certain cultures, charred food is a delicacy, celebrated for its intense flavors and unique cooking methods.
  • The practice of charring meat can be traced back to ancient times, where open flame cooking created distinctive tastes.

Origin of 'charred'

The word 'charred' comes from the Old English word 'ceorrian' which means 'to turn to ashes'. It has been used in English since the 14th century to describe something burnt or blackened by fire.

See also: char, charade, charbroil, charcoal, charity, charring.

Word Frequency Rank

With rank #17,492, this word belongs to specialized vocabulary. While not common in everyday speech, it enriches your ability to express complex ideas.