blistering
UK: ˈblɪstərɪŋ | US: ˈblɪstərɪŋ
adj. extremely intense or severe (e.g., heat, speed, criticism)
adj. causing blisters (e.g., heat or chemical action)
v. present participle of "blister" (to form or cause blisters)
The word "blister" traces back to Old French blestre (a swelling or pustule), possibly of Germanic origin. The suffix -ing turns the noun/verb into an adjective or present participle. Over time, "blistering" evolved metaphorically to describe anything as intense or rapid as the effect of a blister (e.g., "blistering speed").
The blistering heat made it impossible to walk barefoot on the sand.
She delivered a blistering critique of the government’s policies.
The chemical caused a blistering rash on his arms.
The car reached blistering speeds on the straightaway.
His blistering performance earned him a standing ovation.