searing

UK: ˈsɪərɪŋ | US: ˈsɪrɪŋ

Definition

  1. adj. extremely hot or intense

  2. adj. causing a burning sensation

  3. vt. present participle of sear (to burn or scorch superficially)

Structure
sear <to burn>ing <present participle suffix>
Etymology

The word searing originates from the Old English sēarian ("to wither, dry up"), derived from Proto-Germanic sauzijaną ("to burn"). The root sear has retained its core meaning of burning or scorching, while the suffix -ing transforms it into an adjective or present participle. Over time, searing evolved to describe both literal burning (e.g., searing heat) and figurative intensity (e.g., searing pain).

Examples

  1. The chef used a searing flame to caramelize the steak.

  2. She felt a searing pain in her shoulder after the injury.

  3. The desert sun was searing, reaching over 50°C.

  4. His searing critique left the audience stunned.

  5. The metal plate was searing to the touch.