simmer
simmer Lexical Profile
simmer Game Scores & Validity
• verb
To stay just below the boiling point while bubbling gently, or to cook food slowly in liquid at this temperature.
"Allow the tomato sauce to simmer uncovered until it thickens and develops a rich flavor."
To exist in a suppressed state of building intensity, or to be filled with barely restrained anger or excitement (of a person, emotion, or conflict).
"Discontent continued to simmer among the staff after the new policy was announced."
• noun
A state or temperature of liquid that is kept just below the boiling point, marked by gentle bubbling.
"Bring the soup to a boil, then reduce the heat to a low simmer for twenty minutes."
A state of barely suppressed agitation, anger, or excitement.
"The longstanding rivalry between the two departments remained at a constant simmer throughout the project."
• Rhymes for simmer
• Nearby Words
Word Origin & Etymology
Dating back to the mid-17th century, 'simmer' is an alteration of the obsolete verb 'simper' (meaning to boil gently), which is believed to be of imitative origin, mimicking the soft, murmuring sound of gently bubbling liquid.