Scorch Meaning in English
word
Definition
To burn the surface of something with heat so that it becomes brown, black, or slightly damaged, often without burning completely.
Usage & Nuances
Usually refers to burning just the surface or outer layer, not complete destruction. Common with heat, fire, sun, or hot objects. Typical collocations: 'scorch the earth', 'scorched shirt', 'the sun scorched'. Can be literal or figurative (e.g., 'scorching criticism').
Example Sentences
Be careful not to scorch your shirt with the iron.
basic
The sun can scorch the plants in the garden.
basic
She accidentally scorched the paper while lighting a candle.
basic
The road was scorched by last summer's heatwave.
natural
My toast got a little scorched, but it still tastes good.
natural
The chef likes to scorch the top of the crème brûlée for extra crunch.
natural