Scorching Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

๐Ÿ”ฅ
Add to dictionary

scorching

[หˆskษ”ห.tสƒษชล‹ ]

Definitions

Context #1 | Adjective

weather

Extremely hot

Synonyms

blistering, burning, sweltering.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

arrow down
Word Description / Examples
scorching

Describes extremely high heat, often used in reference to weather or temperatures that are hot enough to cause discomfort or potential harm.

  • It's a scorching day outside, make sure to stay hydrated.
  • The scorching heat of the desert is unbearable.
burning

Used to describe something that is on fire, causing pain, or generating extreme heat. It can also be used metaphorically to describe intense emotions or sensations.

  • The burning sun made the sand too hot to walk on.
  • She felt a burning desire to succeed.
blistering

Refers to intense heat, often associated with causing blisters or used metaphorically to describe something very intense and rapid, like speed.

  • He ran at a blistering pace and broke the record.
  • The blistering sun made it hard to stay outside for long.
sweltering

Describes an atmosphere or environment that is oppressively hot and humid, usually referring to weather.

  • The sweltering humidity made it hard to breathe.
  • After hours in the sweltering heat, they finally reached an air-conditioned room.

Examples of usage

  • The scorching sun beat down on the desert.
  • The scorching heat wave made it unbearable to be outside.
Context #2 | Adjective

cooking

Cooked or heated to a high temperature that causes burning or charring

Synonyms

charring, searing, toasting.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

arrow down
Word Description / Examples
scorching

Typically used to describe extreme heat, often in relation to weather or temperatures.

  • The sun was scorching hot today
  • The desert experiences scorching temperatures during the summer
searing

Typically used to describe intense, burning sensation or heat. Often used in cooking techniques or describing extreme emotional pain.

  • She felt a searing pain in her leg
  • The chef is searing the meat to lock in the juices
toasting

Most often used when slightly heating or browning food, especially bread or nuts.

  • He is toasting a piece of bread for breakfast
  • Toasting the almonds brings out their natural flavors
charring

Commonly used when something is burned to the point that it blackens and turns to charcoal. Often used in cooking or describing fire damage.

  • The campfire caused the edges of the paper to start charring
  • The charring on the steak gives it a smoky flavor

Examples of usage

  • The scorching hot pan quickly seared the steak.
  • Be careful, the oven is scorching hot.

Translations

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

Interesting Facts

Climate Science

  • Scorching heat is often linked to heatwaves, which can last for several days and significantly impact health.
  • Extreme temperatures can cause droughts, affecting food and water supplies around the world.
  • The Earthโ€™s increasing temperatures due to climate change are leading to more frequent scorching events.

Literature

  • In literature, scorching landscapes often symbolize despair or harsh realities faced by characters.
  • Many poets use the imagery of scorching heat to evoke emotions such as suffering or relentless determination.
  • Classic works often depict characters journeying through scorching deserts, representing trials and tribulations.

Health

  • Scorching temperatures can lead to heat exhaustion and heat stroke, which are serious health risks.
  • Staying hydrated is crucial during scorching weather to prevent dehydration and heat-related illnesses.
  • Protective measures like wearing light clothing and sunscreen are essential to cope with extreme heat.

Pop Culture

  • The term 'scorching' is often used in music and entertainment to describe exciting performances or hit shows.
  • Movies set in scorching environments, like deserts, frequently explore themes of survival and adventure.
  • Popular songs reference 'scorching' emotions to describe intense love or passion.

Origin of 'scorching'

Main points about word origin

  • The word 'scorch' comes from the Old English 'sorcan', meaning to burn slightly.
  • It has evolved over time, gaining various meanings related to heat and damage.
  • In the late 1500s, the term started being used to describe intense heat affecting the environment.

The word 'scorching' originated from the Middle English word 'scorchen' which means to burn slightly. It has been used since the 14th century to describe extreme heat or burning. Over time, 'scorching' has evolved to convey the idea of intense heat or cooking at high temperatures.


See also: scorch, scorched, scorcher.

Word Frequency Rank

With rank #19,368, this word belongs to specialized vocabulary. While not common in everyday speech, it enriches your ability to express complex ideas.