Definition

To reach a temperature where a liquid turns into vapor, often producing bubbles and steam.

Example

The water will boil if you heat it enough.

Tense Forms

Conversation

I left the pot on the stove too long, and now the water is starting to boil.

Oh no! Did you burn anything?

Not yet, but I need to turn it off before it spills over.

Good idea! You don’t want a mess all over the kitchen.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Definition

A painful swelling on the skin filled with pus, often caused by an infection, or a situation where a liquid is agitated and bubbling.

Example

He had a boil on his arm that needed to be treated by a doctor.

Conversation

I heard they have a shrimp boil this weekend at the park.

That sounds amazing! I've never been to one before.

You should definitely go; it's a lot of fun and the food is delicious!

Definition

To heat a liquid until it bubbles and turns into vapor.

Example

I will boil the water before making tea.

Tense Forms

Conversation

Hey, do you know how to boil eggs perfectly?

Yeah, it's pretty simple! Just make sure the water is at a rolling boil.

That sounds easy enough. How long do you usually boil them for?

Root Explanation

The word 'boil' originates from Old French 'boillir', meaning to bubble or seethe, which in turn comes from Latin 'bullire', meaning to bubble or boil. The word describes the process of heating a liquid until it bubbles and turns to vapor.

Memory Tip

Think of the bubbling action of a liquid when it gets hot — that's what 'boil' means, coming from the Latin word for bubbling.

Visually Confused Words