Scorch: meaning, definitions and examples

Used when something is superficially burned or singed, often changing the color but not completely destroying the material.

• The sun can scorch your skin if you're not careful
• He accidentally scorched the shirt with the iron

A general term used when something is damaged or destroyed by fire or heat. It can refer to various degrees of damage, from slight to severe.

• She burned her hand on the hot stove
• The house burned down in the fire

Describes something that has been burned until it turns black and is usually associated with more significant damage or destruction.

• The edges of the steak were charred
• The fire charred the wooden beams of the old barn

Often used in cooking to describe the process of quickly browning the surface of food at high heat, while the inside remains mostly raw.

• He seared the scallops in a hot pan
• The chef seared the steak to lock in the juices

Same as the previous 'scorch'. Often used interchangeably.

• The intense sun scorched the grass.
• The hot iron scorched the fabric.

A general term for damage caused by heat, flame, or radiation. It can refer to injury to skin or damage to objects and surfaces.

• She burned her hand on the stove.
• The candle burned for hours.

Describes the formation of a raised area on the skin filled with fluid, usually due to friction, burns, or irritation. It can also refer to similar formations on objects.

• He got a blister from wearing tight shoes.
• The paint began to blister under the intense heat.

Refers to a red, swollen mark left on the skin by a blow or pressure. It often has a negative connotation as it implies injury or irritation.

• After being hit, he had a welt on his arm.
• The allergic reaction caused welts to appear on her skin.