Definition

To cook something gently at a temperature just below boiling, or to be filled with strong emotions that are not expressed.

Example

The soup needs to simmer for about 20 minutes to develop its flavor.

Tense Forms

Conversation

What are you cooking for dinner tonight?

I'm just letting the soup simmer for a bit longer.

That sounds delicious! Do you add any special ingredients?

Yeah, I like to add some herbs while it simmers.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Definition

The process of cooking food gently in liquid at a temperature just below boiling, where small bubbles form but do not break the surface.

Example

The soup was left to simmer for an hour to enhance the flavors.

Conversation

How long do you usually let the soup simmer?

I usually let it simmer for about 30 minutes to bring out the flavors.

That makes sense, I should try that next time.

Definition

To cook food slowly in a liquid that is very hot but not boiling.

Example

I like to simmer the sauce for a few hours to enhance the flavor.

Tense Forms

Conversation

What are you cooking for dinner tonight?

I’m going to simmer some vegetables in broth.

That sounds delicious! How long do you usually simmer them for?

Root Explanation

Simmer originates from Middle English 'simeren', which is derived from Old English 'simrian', meaning to boil gently or to stew. The word describes the process of cooking food slowly in liquid just below the boiling point.

Memory Tip

Think of gently cooking something just below boiling — that's what simmer means.

Visually Confused Words