Singeing: meaning, definitions and examples

Etymology

• The word 'singe' comes from the Old French 'cingler', which means to burn lightly.
• It has roots in Latin, from 'cingere', meaning to encircle, often relating to the way fire can surround an object.

Science

• Singeing is a process used in textile manufacturing to remove excess fibers by briefly exposing the fabric to flame.
• Light singeing can enhance flavors in cooking, like when you slightly scorch a steak to create a tasty crust.

Cultural Practices

• In many cultures, singeing animal hair is done before cooking to prepare the skin and improve the taste.
• Burning sage, known as 'smudging', is a traditional practice that involves singeing dried herbs for spiritual cleansing.

Literature

• In various literary works, singeing is often used metaphorically to describe emotional or physical pain, like the aftermath of a heated argument.
• Poets have used the concept of singeing to illustrate fleeting beauty, like the short-lived flame of a candle.

Safety and Precautions

• Singeing can lead to dangerous fires if not controlled, emphasizing the need for safety around flames.
• Understanding the difference between singeing and actual burning is important, as improper handling can cause more serious damage.

Ranking #35,266, this word is encountered relatively rarely in everyday English. It might appear in literary works or specialized texts but isn't essential for general communication.

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