simmer

[ sim-er ]

verb (used without object)

1. to cook or cook in a liquid at or just below the boiling point.
2. to make a gentle murmuring sound, as liquids cooking just below the boiling point.
3. to be in a state of subdued or restrained activity, development, excitement, anger, etc.:

   The town simmered with rumors.

verb (used with object)

1. to keep (liquid) in a state approaching boiling.
2. to cook in a liquid that is kept at or just below the boiling point.

noun

1. the state or process of simmering.

verb phrase

1. 1. to reduce in volume by simmering.
   2. Slang. to become calm or quiet, as from a state of anger or turmoil:

      We waited for the audience to simmer down.

simmer

/ ˈsɪmə /

verb

1. to cook (food) gently at or just below the boiling point
2. intr to be about to break out in rage or excitement

noun

1. the act, sound, or state of simmering

Other Words From

• simmer·ing·ly adverb
• re·simmer verb
• un·simmered adjective
• un·simmer·ing adjective

Word History and Origins

Origin of simmer¹

First recorded in 1645–55; alteration of earlier simper < ?

Word History and Origins

Origin of simmer¹

C17: perhaps of imitative origin; compare German summen to hum

Synonym Study

See boil ¹.

Example Sentences

David Rooney was less favourable about Mescal's performance and called it "a tad flat at times" with his emotional range "sticking mostly to the same notes of brooding intensity and simmering rage".

From BBC

Among the votes who aren’t zeroed in on those sources simmers a profound sense of disconnectedness or any inkling that the election mattered at all.

From Salon

It’s worth noting that Coelen offered this perspective unasked, and as a tangent to a conversation about the relationship “Love Is Blind” participants have to broader social and political conversations simmering throughout American culture.

From Salon

With an offense that is finally starting to simmer, the Chargers can do just enough to win.

From Los Angeles Times

But, as so often is the case, it was the unexpected moment that highlighted the tensions that still simmer here between modern Australia and its reconciliation with its past.

From BBC

Related Words

• bubble
• burn
• churn
• ferment
• rage
• seethe
• stew
• stir
• warm