Smolder Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
🔥
smolder
[ˈsmoʊldər ]
Definitions
in a fire
To burn slowly with smoke but no flame, often as a result of fire being extinguished
Synonyms
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| smolder |
Use 'smolder' to describe something that is burning slowly without flames, often preceded by a period of intense heat. This word can also describe suppressed emotions that are not visible but felt deeply.
|
| burn |
'Burn' is used when something is being consumed by fire or intense heat. It can be applied to a wide range of scenarios from small objects to large structures.
|
| glow |
'Glow' describes a steady light, typically soft and not very intense, often coming from a source of heat. It can also be used metaphorically to describe a person's healthy appearance or radiant emotion.
|
| char |
'Char' refers to the process of burning something until it turns black. This often implies a high degree of burning, usually resulting in damage or destruction.
|
Examples of usage
- The campfire began to smolder after we poured water on it
- The embers continued to smolder for several hours
hidden emotions
To feel a strong emotion but not show it, especially anger or resentment
Synonyms
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| smolder |
Repeated entry, please refer to the first description. |
| fester |
Used for negative things like resentment or wounds that continue to worsen over time. Often carries a negative connotation.
|
| simmer |
Describes something that is cooking at a low heat, but also emotions that are quietly intensifying and about to come to the surface.
|
| brew |
Typically used when something is being prepared or developing, often in a way that suggests a storm or trouble is coming. Can also refer to making tea or coffee.
|
Examples of usage
- She tried to hide her disappointment, but it continued to smolder inside her
- His anger toward his boss continued to smolder for weeks
smoke
Smoke or fume emitted by something smoldering
Synonyms
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| smolder |
Use when describing something that is burning slowly without flames, often with smoke. This can also metaphorically describe suppressed emotions or feelings.
|
| smoke |
Typically used for describing visible vapors or gases emitted by burning materials, as well as for referring to the act of smoking tobacco.
|
| fume |
Best suited for describing the emission of gas or vapors, often in a negative or harmful sense. It can also imply being very angry.
|
| vapor |
Commonly used to describe substances in the gas phase at a temperature lower than their critical point, like water vapor or steam.
|
Examples of usage
- The room was filled with the acrid smolder from the fire
- He could smell the smolder of burning wood in the air
Translations
To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.
Interesting Facts
Literature
- In literature, smoldering often symbolizes hidden emotions, representing inner turmoil that is not outwardly expressed.
- Many poets use the term to evoke a sense of desire or intensity, such as in romantic poetry where feelings are deep yet unspoken.
- Famous novels often feature characters whose passions smolder, creating tension and depth in their relationships.
Science
- Smoldering is a type of combustion that occurs at lower temperatures than flaming combustion, making it a key area of study in fire science.
- The process of smoldering occurs in various natural settings, such as wildfires, where it can burn underground and reignite later.
- This form of combustion is also relevant in environmental science, especially regarding its impact on air quality due to smoke release.
Pop Culture
- The imagery of smoldering often appears in movies and television, particularly in scenes depicting unresolved tension or passion between characters.
- Songs frequently reference smoldering emotions to describe complex romantic feelings, enhancing the narrative of desire and longing.
- Famous actors are often described as having a 'smoldering look', indicating a captivating and intense charm that attracts audiences.
Psychology
- In psychology, the idea of smoldering feelings illustrates the concept of repressed emotions that may lead to outbursts if not addressed.
- Many therapists suggest that smoldering emotions can contribute to stress and anxiety, highlighting the importance of emotional expression.
- The metaphor of smoldering can also be applied to interpersonal relationships, where uncommunicated feelings may affect dynamics over time.
Origin of 'smolder'
Main points about word origin
- The word originates from Old English 'smouldrian', which means to 'smolder' or 'smoulder', reflecting a slow, quiet burning.
- In Middle English, the term was often used in relation to coals and ashes, highlighting its connection to slow combustion.
- The transition in spelling from Old to Modern English shows the evolution of everyday language.
The word 'smolder' originated from the Middle English word 'smolderen', which means 'to suffocate'. It has been used in the English language since the 14th century. The concept of smoldering fire has been associated with slow burning and hidden emotions, giving rise to its figurative meanings over time.
See also: mold, molded, molder, molding, moldmaker, unmolded.