What does singed mean?
“Singed” is a word for something that has been lightly burned or scorched, usually at its surface. It is often used for hair singed by heat or chemicals, feathers or fabric with singed edges, and food such as onions or peppers that have been touched by flame. The word can also function as the past tense and past participle of the verb “singe.” Unlike “burned” in every context, “singed” generally emphasizes a limited or superficial burn and often evokes a visible mark or characteristic smell. In figurative use, “singed hair” is a familiar expression associated with accidental exposure to flame, sparks, or strong chemicals. Because the damage is usually partial rather than destructive, “singed” communicates both the effect of heat and the possibility that the object remains usable or recognizable.
To burn or scorch something lightly, especially its surface.
"The fire singed the hem of her coat."
Usually transitive and often implies a partial or superficial burn rather than complete destruction.
Lightly burned or scorched; having a scorched appearance or smell.
"He brushed the singed feathers from the roasted bird."
Frequently used with “hair,” “edges,” “feathers,” and food.
A light scorch can leave a distinctive mark—and even a distinctive smell—that tells you something has been exposed to intense heat.
Reviewed by Deb Chak, Editor. AI-assisted content curated by RJS Tech Solutions LLP.
Where does singed come from?
The word is an English formation based on the established verb “singe,” meaning to burn or scorch lightly. The form “singed” developed by adding the ordinary English past-tense and participial ending “-ed.” The underlying idea is therefore continuous with the older, less frequent verb “singe,” while the derived form is the form most often encountered in modern descriptions of lightly scorched hair, food, fabric, and other materials.
Related word forms
How singed is actually used
“Singed” commonly suggests a light burn or scorching rather than complete consumption. It is used figuratively for hair, feathers, fabric, food, and the edges of paper or other materials. The adjective can also describe a distinctive scorched smell or appearance.
Easily confused with singed
“Singed” means burned or scorched, while “signed” means bearing a signature or having been signed.