simmer

American  

[sim-er] / ˈsɪm ər /

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. simmer down

   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 British  

/ 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

Related Words

See boil ¹.

Other Word Forms

• resimmer verb
• simmeringly adverb
• unsimmered adjective
• unsimmering adjective

Etymology

Origin of simmer

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

Example Sentences

It adds depth to weeknight beef stew when hours of simmering aren’t on the table, and lends a savory, umami backbone to mushroom stroganoff that tastes far more intentional than the effort required.

From Salon

In a time of social conformity, “Picnic” explored the emotional wreckage and simmering passions behind the picket fences.

From The Wall Street Journal

Xi also demanded commitment to his vision of strengthening China through state-led development, signaling no compromise on his policies despite simmering resentment over his economic management.

From The Wall Street Journal

A handful of methods — braising, salting, slow simmering, sweating — can turn the overlooked into something extraordinary.

From Salon

Saudi Arabia and the U.A.E. have long maintained peaceful relations with each other and are key security partners for the U.S., but tensions have simmered just below the surface and occasionally erupt.

From The Wall Street Journal

Related Words

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