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

If you do, you can skip the initial 20-minute simmer and add the kale when you add the broth.

From Washington Post

Add enough water to cover and bring to a boil over high heat, then lower the heat to a simmer and cook, skimming off and discarding any foam that rises to the top, until the chicken breasts are firm to the touch, about 25 minutes.

From Washington Post

Bring the soup to a brisk simmer and cook for 5 minutes, then turn off the heat.

From Washington Post

When the spices are fragrant, add the water and bring the mixture to a simmer.

From Outside Online

Nine months into the worst pandemic the world has seen in 90 years, deep in a recession that shows no signs of ebbing, we are witnessing multiple hot spots on the simmer simultaneously.

From Ozy

Add the butter, chicken stock, salt, bay leaf, thyme, and tarragon and bring to a simmer.

From The Daily Beast

Add the vinegar, bring to a simmer, then stir in the chicken stock.

From The Daily Beast

In a small saucepan, combine the yogurt, cream, and vadouvan spice and bring to a simmer.

From The Daily Beast

Add the remaining tomatoes, cover, and simmer for another 20 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through.

From The Daily Beast

Bring to a simmer, then reduce the heat to just below a simmer and cook until the shallots are very tender, about 20 minutes.

From The Daily Beast

Well, we'll simmer down when the turn comes, and though I'm piling up dollars, I'll be thankful.

From Project Gutenberg

Allow the mixture to simmer in a hot oven and serve with fresh asparagus cut before breakfast.

From Project Gutenberg

Keep it boiling till the chicken is done, which would be in about an hour's time after it begins to simmer.

From Project Gutenberg

Cut up the duck or teal, and put it into the sauce, and let it simmer for a long time—the duck having been previously roasted.

From Project Gutenberg

Reduce and simmer till it is thick, then pass through a sieve, and take it off the fire before it boils.

From Project Gutenberg

Related Words

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