What does sere mean?
Sere is a rare adjective meaning dry, withered, parched, or scorched. It is especially associated with vegetation that has lost its moisture and vitality, as in the familiar image of “sere grass.” The word has an old-fashioned literary quality and is now largely encountered as a variant or alternative spelling of “sear.” Because of its limited use, it can sound evocative and slightly poetic in modern writing, but ordinary speakers would generally choose “dry,” “withered,” or “scorched” when those words are sufficient. In older literature and dialectal usage, “sere” could describe both naturally withered vegetation and material affected by intense heat. Its distinctive history and conservative sound make it more memorable than common, though it should be used with awareness of its marked register.
adjectiveDry, withered, or burned; especially of vegetation, soil, or material. The word is now chiefly literary or archaic and is often encountered as a variant of “sear.”
- Dry or withered, especially as a result of heat or lack of moisture.
- Scorched or burned.
"The sere grass curled beneath the summer sun."
"By late August, the fields were sere and brown."
"The wind carried the scent of sere leaves across the road."
A forgotten spelling that preserves an older, more literary atmosphere: the world is not just dry, but sere.
Reviewed by Deb Chak, Editor. AI-assisted content curated by RJS Tech Solutions LLP.
Where does sere come from?
“Sere” is an older spelling and variant of “sear.” Its vocabulary ultimately relates to Old English “sear,” meaning dry or withered; the modern word “sever” also belongs to the same broader Germanic root concerned with dryness or cutting. The variant spelling “sere” survived especially in literary and regional usage after “sear” became the dominant standard form.
How sere is actually used
This is a literary, archaic, or regional form. In contemporary standard English, “sear” is usually preferred for the adjective and verb meaning to dry or scorch.
Easily confused with sere
“Sere” is an older spelling and variant of “sear,” while “sear” is the modern standard form.