Definition

The soft gray or black powdery residue left after the burning of a substance, especially the remains of something that has been cremated or decayed.

Example

After the campfire burned out, all that was left was a pile of ash.

Conversation

I found some old photographs of my grandfather's garden.

That sounds interesting! Did he have any special plants?

Yes, he had a beautiful ash tree that he loved.

I can imagine it must have been stunning in the fall!

Synonyms & Antonyms

Definition

To turn something into ash, usually by burning it.

Example

The scientist will ash the tissue sample to study its components.

Tense Forms

Conversation

Did you hear about the lab where they ash the samples for testing?

Yeah, that's pretty interesting! I didn't know they did that.

I wonder how they actually ash them without losing important data.

Root Explanation

The word 'ash' originates from Old English 'æsc', meaning the ash tree or its wood. It refers specifically to the tree known for its strength and resilience, as well as the light gray residue left after burning wood.

Memory Tip

Think of the Old English word 'æsc' for the ash tree, which helps you remember that 'ash' refers to both the tree and the residue left after burning.

Visually Confused Words