burnt

word · lemma: burn

/ˈbɝnt/
burnt
/bˈɜːnt/
burnt

Definition

"Burnt" is the usual past participle and adjective of "burn" in many contexts. It describes something damaged, injured, or blackened by fire or heat, and it can also mean cooked too much.

Usage & Nuances

"Burnt" is very common in British English; American English also often uses "burned," especially as the past tense verb. As an adjective, "burnt" is natural in phrases like "burnt toast," "burnt skin," and "burnt smell." Do not confuse it with informal "burned out," which usually means exhausted.

Example Sentences

The grass was dry and burnt after weeks without rain.

natural

The toast is burnt.

basic

I burnt my hand on the pan.

basic

The fire burnt the old chair.

basic

Something smells burnt in the kitchen.

natural

I left dinner in the oven too long, and now it's burnt.

natural