sear - Master This Word
Master this word with our 5-step learning method – Learn English in English
sear Word Meanings
- to burn the surface of something
- to quickly cook the outside of food at high heat
- to dry or wither from heat or lack of moisture
sear Example Sentences
Example sentences are the start of understanding. Don't rush to memorize. First feel how the word works in a sentence.
sear Phonetic & Pronunciation
UK
/sɪə/
US
/sɪr/
sear Word Etymology
sear = sear (root) + -ing (suffix). Origin: Old English séarian. Memory image: Imagine food sizzling and turning golden brown as it hits a hot grill, sealing in flavors.
Note 1: These definitions and etymologies are not standard dictionary definitions, but extended explanations provided to help with memorization and understanding of the actual application of words. Through this background information, we strive to make words more vivid and easier to understand, and help you remember their meanings in real life.
Note 2: LexiTalk designs the learning flow around the linguistics principle of “Comprehensible Input.” When learners encounter material that is slightly above their level but still understandable from context, the brain naturally absorbs the language. That’s why we keep every word inside authentic contexts, using examples and associations to help you understand it and use it flexibly.
Read the FAQ explanation of Comprehensible InputReal Context
Sear is a verb that means to burn or char the surface of something, or to cook the outside of food quickly at high heat, often to create a browned crust. In cooking, searing changes the texture and flavor of the surface while leaving the interior relatively intact, and it is usually followed by longer cooking to finish the dish. Searing can also describe drying out or scorching something from heat or lack of moisture in nonfood contexts. The memory image is the sizzling, quick contact with a hot surface that yields a caramelized edge and intensified aroma in seconds.
Usage Reminders
- 1) Use a hot pan and minimal oil for a good crust. 2) Pat dry the surface before searing for even browning. 3) Do not move the food too soon; let it form color. 4) Sear is not the same as burn; aim for a crust, not blackened edges. 5) Searing is often just the first step before longer cooking.
Common Misconceptions
- Searing means fully cooking the food
- Searing always burns the surface
- Any brown color is sear
- Searing is the same as roasting
- You must flip immediately to avoid burning
Thinking Differences
English tends to favor crisp, crust-focused descriptions and direct cooking steps. Learners often misplace sear as an all-purpose browning method or confuse it with long cooking, especially in recipes that list sauteing or roasting nearby.
Learning Tips
- Practice with a hot pan and a small amount of oil to feel the crust form.
- Dry the surface well to avoid steaming and uneven browning.
- Reserve long cooking steps for the interior after searing.
- Watch for the color change rather than smoke or odor alone.
- Use a timer to prevent over-searing on delicate foods.
- Compare sear results on different meats to notice texture changes.
5-Step Learning Method - Learn English in English
Step 1: Meaning
What is the meaning of the word 'sear'?
A.Boil slowly
B.Freeze quickly
C.Burn lightly
D.Bake thoroughly
Step 2: Usage
In which sentence is the word 'sear' used correctly?
A.She froze the meat before cooking it.
B.He baked the steak at a low temperature.
C.The chef seared the tuna quickly on high heat.
D.She boiled the vegetables for a long time.
Step 3: Similar Words
What is a synonym for 'sear'?
A.Chill
B.Incinerate
C.Fry
D.Sear
Step 4: Opposite Words
What is an opposite word for 'sear'?
A.Bake
B.Cook
C.Freeze
D.Warm
Step 5: Mastery
In cooking, why is it important to sear meat before slow cooking it?
A.To keep the meat raw
B.To make the meat tough
C.To enhance flavor by sealing in juices
D.To prevent browning
Related Listening
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