char

UK: tʃɑː | US: tʃɑːr

Definition

  1. vt. to burn slightly or partially, especially reducing to carbon

  2. n. a material that has been charred; charcoal

  3. n. (informal) a charwoman (short for "charwoman," a cleaning lady)

Structure
char <to burn>
Etymology

The word "char" originates from Old English cierran, meaning "to turn." Over time, its meaning shifted to "to scorch" or "partially burn," likely due to the transformative effect of fire on materials. The modern sense of "charcoal" or "carbon residue" emerged from this process. The informal use for "charwoman" (a cleaning lady) is a shortening of "charwoman," where "char" may derive from the same root, implying repetitive or menial labor.

Examples

  1. The fire began to char the edges of the paper.

  2. The steak was slightly charred on the grill.

  3. They collected char from the burnt wood to use as fuel.

  4. (Historical) The charwoman came every Tuesday to clean the house.

  5. Overcooking will char the vegetables and ruin their flavor.