What does simmer mean?
To simmer is to cook food gently in liquid at or just below the point of boiling, usually so that it bubbles softly rather than boiling rapidly. The word is also used figuratively for a situation in which activity, anxiety, anger, or conflict continues at a low but persistent level. A person may simmer with resentment, while an issue or dispute simmers before reaching a crisis. These figurative uses suggest intensity that is contained but not resolved. Although simmering often implies a longer, gentler cooking process than boiling, it does not necessarily require liquid: food can simmer in its own juices or in a small amount of moisture. The expression “let it simmer” can encourage patience, while describing a simmering dispute emphasizes continuing tension beneath a calm surface.
To cook food gently in liquid at or just below boiling point.
"Simmer the sauce for fifteen minutes before serving it."
Often used in the pattern “simmer something” or with an implied object, as in “Let it simmer.”
To continue at a low level of activity or intensity, or to remain in a state of contained anger, anxiety, or tension.
"The dispute simmered for months before the two sides finally reached an agreement."
The figurative sense is especially common with disputes, emotions, and underlying tensions.
A state of gentle heat or quiet activity; also a figurative state of contained anger or tension.
"The pot was left on a low simmer."
The noun is less common than the verb and is usually used in the phrase “on a simmer” or with “a simmer.”
The plural is rare and occurs when separate instances of gentle cooking or contained tension are referred to.
"The two political simmers continued for months without breaking into open crisis."
A simmer keeps things moving without the violence of a boil—a useful metaphor for both cooking and patient negotiation.
Reviewed by Deb Chak, Editor. AI-assisted content curated by RJS Tech Solutions LLP.
Where does simmer come from?
The English verb appeared in the early modern period with its culinary meaning. Its deeper origin is obscure, and the word may owe part of its form to imitative consonant sounds associated with gently bubbling liquid. Because its historical connections with other languages are not securely established, it is best treated as an English formation rather than assigned a speculative ancient root.
Related word forms
How simmer is actually used
The verb is common in cooking instructions and is also widely used figuratively. In the figurative senses, it usually suggests continuing anger, anxiety, or tension that has not yet become openly disruptive.
Easily confused with simmer
To simmer is to cook or remain at a gentle heat, whereas to simper is to smile in a weak or affected manner.