Scorching Meaning and Definition
Scorching
Pronunciation
/ˈskɔːrtsɪŋ/
Part of Speech
Adjective
Definition
Extremely hot or intense, often to the point of being unbearable or causing discomfort.
Examples
- The scorching sun beat down on us as we walked through the desert.
- The scorching criticism from the judge left the contestant in tears.
Synonyms
- Blistering
- Sweltering
Antonyms
- Cool
- Mild
Additional Information
Scorching temperatures can be dangerous, especially for vulnerable individuals such as the elderly or young children. It is essential to take precautions when exposed to extreme heat, such as staying hydrated and seeking shade. In a figurative sense, scorching criticism or feedback can be devastating, but it can also serve as a catalyst for growth and improvement.
In some cases, scorching can be used to describe intense emotions or physical sensations, such as a scorching passion or a scorching pain. The term can also be used to describe extreme weather conditions, such as a scorching drought or a scorching heatwave.
Etymology
The word “scorching” originates from the Old English word “scorcan,” which means “to dry up” or “to wither.” Over time, the term evolved to encompass a broader range of meanings, including extreme heat and intensity.
Usage Notes
When using the word “scorching” to describe temperatures, be sure to provide context to avoid ambiguity. For example, “the scorching desert” is clear, but “the scorching day” could be interpreted as either extremely hot or extremely intense.
Cultural References
The term “scorching” has been used in various forms of media, including music, film, and literature. For example, the song “Scorching” by the band Slayer is a intense and fast-paced track that showcases the band’s aggressive style.
Idiomatic Expressions or Phrases
“Scorching hot” is a common idiomatic expression used to describe extremely high temperatures.
Related Words or Phrases
- Blazing
- Searing
Collocations
- scorching heat
- scorching criticism
Frequency of Use
The word “scorching” is moderately frequent in modern language, often used in everyday conversations and writing to describe intense temperatures or emotions.