Singe: meaning, definitions and examples

Singe is used when something is lightly burned or scorched, often at the edges. It suggests minor damage from heat.

• She singed her hair while trying to light the stove.
• The edges of the paper were singed by the flame.

Scorch describes burning something in such a way that the surface is damaged and changes color, but it isn't as severe as charring. It often implies superficial burning or drying out.

• She scorched her shirt with the hot iron.
• The intense sun scorched the grass.

Char is used when something is burned to the point where its surface turns black. It often implies a more severe burn than scorch or singe.

• The chef accidentally charred the steak on the grill.
• The edges of the bread were charred and inedible.

Sear is typically used in cooking to describe quickly burning the surface of food at high heat to create a crust while keeping the inside moist. It can also mean to cause intense, sudden pain or heat.

• The chef seared the fish to give it a crispy texture.
• The intense heat seared his skin.

Used when something is lightly burned or scorched, often involving hair or fabrics. It implies a superficial or slight burn rather than complete destruction.

• She accidentally singed her hair while lighting the candle
• The edges of the paper were singed by the flame

Used when something is burned on the surface or slightly damaged by heat. It often conveys unintentional minor damage.

• The iron scorched the shirt
• The hot summer sun scorched the grass

A general term that can refer to fire damage of various degrees, from slight to severe, and can apply to a wide range of materials. It is the most common and versatile term.

• He burned his hand on the stove
• The campfire burned brightly throughout the night

Refers to burning something until it is blackened and carbonized, typically used in cooking or describing something that is heavily burned.

• The chef accidentally charred the steak
• The wood had been charred by the intense heat