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Steamer Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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steamer

[หˆstiหmษ™r ]

Definitions

Context #1 | Noun

kitchen

A steamer is a kitchen appliance used to cook food by steaming.

Synonyms

steam cooker, steaming pot.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
steamer

Used as a general term to refer to a device that cooks food using steam. Can be used in informal or general conversation.

  • I bought a new steamer to cook my vegetables.
steam cooker

Used when describing a type of kitchen appliance specifically designed to steam food. Popular in product descriptions or appliance reviews.

  • This steam cooker comes with multiple compartments for different types of food.
steaming pot

Refers specifically to a pot with a steam insert, used in a more specific context, usually in recipes or when describing a particular method of cooking.

  • Place the broccoli in the steaming pot and cook for five minutes.

Examples of usage

  • I use a steamer to cook vegetables.
  • The steamer is great for cooking healthy meals.
Context #2 | Noun

transport

A steamer is a ship or boat powered by steam engines.

Synonyms

steamboat, steamship.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
steamer

This term can be used to refer to any type of boat or ship that is powered by steam. It is a general term that can describe a variety of steam-powered vessels.

  • The old steamer was docked at the harbor, awaiting its next cargo.
  • They boarded the steamer for a scenic trip down the river.
steamship

This term is typically used to refer to larger, ocean-going steam-powered ships. It has a more formal tone and is often used in historical contexts.

  • The steamship set sail from London to New York, a journey that would take several days.
  • They marveled at the grandeur of the steamship as it departed the port.
steamboat

This word is more specific and is typically used to describe a boat that operates on inland waterways, such as rivers and lakes, using steam power. It often conjures images of historic paddle steamers.

  • They took a nostalgic ride on a steamboat down the Mississippi River.
  • The steamboat's paddle wheels churned the water as it made its way upstream.

Examples of usage

  • The old steamer sailed across the ocean.
  • The steamers were a common sight in the 19th century.
Context #3 | Noun

clothing

A steamer is a type of garment steamer used to remove wrinkles from clothing.

Synonyms

clothes steamer, garment steamer.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
steamer

This repeat of the previous entry indicates the need to combine content where applicable. Given the context of the list, it should not be duplicated. See the first 'steamer' entry for details.
garment steamer

Similar to 'clothes steamer', this term is specifically used for devices designed to remove wrinkles from clothing. It is often seen in professional or commercial settings.

  • The hotel housekeeping department uses garment steamers to ensure all uniforms are wrinkle-free.
clothes steamer

This term specifically refers to a type of steamer used for removing wrinkles from clothes. It highlights that the device is for garments.

  • I bought a clothes steamer to get rid of wrinkles on my suits quickly.

Examples of usage

  • She used a steamer to freshen up her suit.
  • The steamer made the clothes look brand new.

Translations

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

Interesting Facts

Historical Origins

  • The first steam-powered vessels appeared in the early 19th century, transforming how goods and people were transported on water.
  • Steam cooking has been used for centuries in various cultures, particularly in Asian cuisines, to retain nutrients in food.

Science

  • Steam is water vapor produced when water boils, and it's highly effective in cooking because it transfers heat quickly.
  • Cooking with steam helps preserve the color, flavor, and nutrients in food better than many other cooking methods.

Literature

  • In literature, steam-powered machinery often symbolizes industrial progress and the challenges of modernization.
  • Charles Dickens used steam engines as a backdrop in his novels to depict the changing landscape of Victorian England.

Pop Culture

  • Steamers have appeared in films and TV shows where characters are depicted cooking or preparing food in a hurry, emphasizing convenience.
  • The steamer has inspired various kitchen gadgets in modern pop culture, showcasing creative cooking methods in culinary shows.

Culinary Traditions

  • In Chinese cuisine, bamboo steamers are traditional tools that allow for healthy cooking and are often used for dumplings.
  • In France, the 'bain-marie' technique uses steam to gently cook delicate dishes, like custards, showcasing an elegant culinary method.

Origin of 'steamer'

The word 'steamer' has its origins in the early 19th century, derived from the use of steam as a power source. The term was first used to describe steam-powered ships, known as steamers. Over time, the word also came to be associated with kitchen appliances and clothing care devices that utilize steam. The concept of steam power revolutionized transportation and cooking methods, leading to the widespread adoption of steamers in various industries.

See also: steam, steamboat, steaming, steamroll, steamship.

Word Frequency Rank

At #6,811 in frequency, this word belongs to advanced vocabulary. It's less common than core vocabulary but important for sophisticated expression.