Sear (verb) – 1. burn or scorch the surface of (something) 2. (of pain) be experienced as a sudden, burning sensation

(Pronounced seer)

To remember the definition of the word sear, use the following mnemonic:

If you see a deer (sear) with its antlers alight, don't touch them. They'll scorch your skin and you'll experience a sudden burning sensation.

Examples of sear (verb) in a sentence (burn or scorch the surface)

Don't forget to sear the steak on both sides.

He placed the hot wok on the plastic counter, leaving a sear mark from the heat. 

The oil and pan need to be incredibly hot to sear the meat effectively.

Examples of sear (verb) in a sentence (a sudden, burning sensation)

You need to wear protective clothing so that the heat from soldering does not sear your skin.

The fire from the BBQ grill was too hot, causing his eyebrows to sear.

When the movie theatre lights suddenly came back on, it felt like they would sear my eyes.