Smoldering - Meaning, Definition & English Examples
Smoldering means burning slowly without flames, often producing smoke. It can describe a fire or something intense but suppressed, like emotions or a lingering gaze. The word suggests quiet, persistent heat or passion.
Definition:
Burning slowly without flame, often with smoke; showing suppressed anger or emotion.
Synonyms:
smouldering, burning, glowing, seething
Part of Speech:
adjective, verb (present participle)
Antonyms:
extinguished, blazing
Common Collocations:
smoldering fire, smoldering anger, smoldering ruins, smoldering look
Derivatives:
smolder (verb), smolderingly (adverb)
Usage Tips:
Use "smoldering" to describe slow-burning fires or intense emotions like anger or passion that are barely contained.
Common Phrases:
smoldering rage, smoldering embers, smoldering intensity
Etymology:
From Middle English *smolder*, meaning to suffocate or smother; related to smoke and slow combustion.
Examples:
- 1. The campfire was left smoldering overnight.
- 2. Her eyes held a smoldering intensity during the argument.
- 3. The ruins were still smoldering days after the explosion.
- 4. He gave her a smoldering look across the room.