steam
steam Lexical Profile
steam Game Scores & Validity
• noun
The hot, invisible vapor into which water is converted when heated to the boiling point, often visible as a white mist when it condenses in cooler air.
"The mirror fogged up completely from the steam of the hot shower."
The power generated by pressurized water vapor, historically used to drive engines and machinery.
"The industrial revolution was largely driven by the power of steam."
Energy, driving force, or momentum.
"The political campaign started slowly but gradually picked up steam."
• verb
To cook (food) by heating it in steam from boiling water.
"She decided to steam the broccoli rather than boil it to retain its nutrients."
To give off or produce steam or hot vapor.
"A freshly poured cup of coffee steamed on the table in the chilly morning air."
To travel or move swiftly under steam power, or to proceed vigorously.
"The massive locomotive steamed into the station exactly on schedule."
• Rhymes for steam
Word Origin & Etymology
From Old English 'stēam' (meaning vapor, smoke, or exhalation), of West Germanic origin, related to Dutch 'stoom'.
Usage Trend
Historical frequency of usage in published text.