Find Synonyms

sear Synonyms

Another word for sear

Choosing another word for sear depends on context, so the 26 synonyms and similar words below are separated across 6 exact definitions and ranked by match strength.
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• verb (Context 1)

To brown or char the surface of meat, fish, or vegetables rapidly at a high temperature so as to caramelize the exterior.

Usage Example

"The chef decided to brown the salmon skin-side down before finishing it in the oven."

Strongest
brown
Strong
char
scorch
singe
Weak
broil

• verb (Context 2)

To burn, scorch, or injure the surface of something with sudden, intense heat.

Usage Example

"The midday desert sun seemed to scorch the bare rock and parch the valley floor."

Strongest
scorch
burn
Strong
singe
char
cauterize
brand
blister
scald
parch

• noun (Context 3)

A browned, caramelized crust formed on the surface of food by cooking it rapidly over intense heat, or a mark left by burning.

Usage Example

"Cooking the scallops in a hot cast-iron skillet produces a golden scorch on the outside."

Strong
scorch
crust
burn
char

• verb (Context 4)

To cause a sharp, burning sensation of pain, or to leave a permanent, vivid impression on the mind or memory.

Usage Example

"The breathtaking view of the canyon at sunrise was enough to etch itself into her memory forever."

Strong
etch
brand
imprint
engrave
sting
Weak
pierce

• noun (Context 5)

The catch or pivoted lever in a gunlock that holds the hammer or striker at full or half cock until the trigger is pulled.

Usage Example

"The gunsmith carefully inspected the worn catch inside the antique mechanism."

Strong
catch
Weak
pawl

• adjective (Context 6)

Dry and withered, especially of autumn leaves or vegetation (most commonly spelled 'sere').

Usage Example

"The autumn wind rustled through the sere, brown leaves clinging to the oak branches."

Strongest
sere
withered
shriveled
Strong
parched
desiccated
dried
arid

Opposites of sear

The opposite of sear shifts depending on context. Common opposites include:

verdant
freeze
lush
soothe
fresh
cool
chill
assuage
See all opposites of sear

Cite this Entry


Wordmom. (2026). Synonyms for Sear. In Wordmom Thesaurus. Retrieved Nov 5, 2026, from https://wordmom.com/synonyms/sear
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