smolder
UK: ˈsməʊldə | US: ˈsmoʊldər
vi. to burn slowly without flame, often with smoke
vi. (figurative) to exist in a suppressed state, especially of emotions or conflict
vi. (of eyes) to glow with subdued intensity
The word "smolder" originates from Middle English smolderen, derived from Old English smorian ("to suffocate or smother"), which is related to smoke (smoke). The core idea is a slow, smoky burn without open flame. Over time, it expanded metaphorically to describe suppressed emotions or latent intensity (e.g., "smoldering anger" or "smoldering gaze"). The -er suffix here functions as a verb-forming element, typical in English to indicate repetitive or continuous action.
The campfire continued to smolder long after the flames died down.
Tensions smoldered between the two rivals for years before erupting into conflict.
His eyes smoldered with quiet fury as he listened to the accusations.
The peat bog smoldered for weeks, releasing thick smoke.
Beneath her calm exterior, resentment smoldered.