Synonyms for

Burn

Verb / bɜ:n / Another word for burn — explore alternatives below. For syllable breakdowns and pronunciation, see this word on Syllablesworld.

Definition

To be on fire or to cause damage or injury by fire.

Synonyms & similar words

burndown cauterise tan sunburn combust bite incinerate cut cauterize burnup burning fire glow sting suntan burnmark burnoff ignite flame torch scorch char singe blaze fire combust kindle smolder sear brand consume cook roast smoke

Synonyms by register

Formal

combust incinerate consume

Informal

blaze scorch char

Literary

sear engulf

Antonyms

cool quench extinguish douse smother freeze

Common collocations

  • burn down
  • burn out
  • burn up
  • burn brightly
  • burn slowly
  • burn to ashes
  • burn calories

Word family

noun burn
verb burn
adjective burning
adverb burningly

Usage note

The verb 'burn' can be transitive (e.g., 'The fire burned the house') or intransitive (e.g., 'The house burned down'). Be mindful of the context when using its synonyms, as some imply complete destruction while others suggest partial damage.

Example sentences

  1. She accidentally burned the toast.
  2. The house burned down in a fire.
  3. He got a bad sunburn at the beach.
  4. The candle burned out before we finished the game.
  5. The fire department quickly put out the burning building.

Quotes

  • You can't keep a good man down, even when he's been burned. - Ben Affleck
  • The only way to do something in depth is to work hard. The moment you start being in love with what you're doing, and thinking it's beautiful or rich, then you're in danger. - Miuccia Prada
  • You know what the issue is? It's that society was set up in a way that doesn't allow for the evolution of humanity as a collective. - Lana Del Rey

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