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Scorch Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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scorch

[skɔːtʃ ]

Definitions

Context #1 | Verb

to burn slightly

To scorch means to burn slightly, usually resulting in discoloration or damage to the surface of something. It can be caused by heat, fire, or intense sunlight.

Synonyms

burn, char, sear.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
scorch

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
burn

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
char

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
sear

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

Examples of usage

  • The iron was too hot and it scorched the shirt.
  • The sun scorched the grass in the field.
  • She accidentally scorched the wooden table with a hot pan.
Context #2 | Noun

a slight or superficial burn

As a noun, scorch refers to a slight or superficial burn on the skin or a surface. It can be caused by heat, fire, or chemicals.

Synonyms

blister, burn, welt.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
scorch

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

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

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.
blister

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.
welt

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.

Examples of usage

  • He got a scorch on his hand from touching the hot stove.
  • The scorch on the fabric was caused by the iron.

Translations

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

Origin of 'scorch'

The word 'scorch' originated from the Old Norse word 'skorpna' which means 'to be shriveled'. It has been used in English since the 14th century to describe the action of burning slightly or causing discoloration due to heat. Over the years, 'scorch' has become a common term to describe minor burns or damage caused by heat.

See also: scorched, scorcher, scorching.

Word Frequency Rank

At rank #26,964, this word represents specialized academic or technical vocabulary. It's less frequently encountered but may be valuable in specific contexts.