simmer

[ˈsɪmə(r)]

simmer Definition

  • 1to cook something gently, keeping it just below boiling point
  • 2to be in a state of quiet or restrained activity or development

Using simmer: Examples

Take a moment to familiarize yourself with how "simmer" can be used in various situations through the following examples!

  • Example

    Simmer the soup for 20 minutes.

  • Example

    The situation continued to simmer for months before it finally boiled over.

  • Example

    She simmered with anger as she listened to his excuses.

simmer Synonyms and Antonyms

Synonyms for simmer

Antonyms for simmer

Phrases with simmer

  • allow something to develop slowly over time

    Example

    I'm going to let this idea simmer for a while before I decide what to do with it.

  • to become calm after being angry or excited

    Example

    He needs to simmer down and think rationally about the situation.

  • simmering tensions

    underlying feelings of anger or hostility that have not yet erupted into open conflict

    Example

    The simmering tensions between the two countries finally boiled over into war.

Origins of simmer

from Middle English 'simeren', probably from Old English 'sēamerian', meaning 'to boil, foam, or bubble'

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Summary: simmer in Brief

The verb 'simmer' [ˈsɪmə(r)] means to cook something gently just below boiling point or to be in a state of quiet or restrained activity or development. It can also be used figuratively, as in 'The situation continued to simmer for months before it finally boiled over.' 'Simmer' has phrases like 'let something simmer,' which means to allow something to develop slowly over time, and 'simmer down,' which means to become calm after being angry or excited.

How do native speakers use this expression?