singe
UK: sɪndʒ | US: sɪndʒ
vt. to burn superficially or lightly
vt. to remove hair or feathers by light burning
n. a slight burn or scorch
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The word "singe" originates from Old English sengan, meaning "to burn lightly" or "to scorch." It is related to Old Norse sengja and Dutch zengen, all sharing the Proto-Germanic root sangijaną, which conveys the idea of a mild or surface-level burn. Unlike more destructive burns, "singe" specifically implies a brief, controlled application of heat—often to remove unwanted material (e.g., hair or feathers) or to lightly char a surface. The word’s compact form reflects its ancient Germanic roots, with no clear prefix/root/suffix division in modern English.
The chef accidentally singed his eyebrows while lighting the stove.
She used a candle to singe the loose threads off the fabric.
The dragon’s breath singed the knight’s cloak but left him unharmed.
Farmers often singe turkey feathers to prepare the bird for cooking.
A sudden spark singed the edge of the paper.