cinder

word

Definition

A small piece of partly burned coal or wood that is no longer burning but may still be hot. Often found after a fire, cinders look like dark, crumbly remains.

Usage & Nuances

Used mostly in literary or descriptive contexts, not common in everyday conversation. Often appears in phrases like 'cold cinders' or in fairy tales (e.g., 'Cinderella' from 'cinders'). Not to be confused with 'ash', which is finer and fully burned.

Example Sentences

There are still some cinders left in the fireplace.

basic

A cinder rolled out and burned the carpet.

basic

After the fire, the ground was covered in cinders.

basic

Watch out, that cinder is still hot!

natural

He tossed a cinder out the window to avoid a fire.

natural

The old train's wheels spat cinders along the tracks.

natural