© 2026 Sloth Lingo. Learn easy. Lounge wisely.

steam

Elementary (A2)

IPA: /stiːm/

KK: /stim/

intransitive verb
Definition

To rise or emit steam, often causing a mist or fog, or to become very angry.


Example

The kettle began to steam as the water heated up.


Tense Forms

Past: steamed

Past Participle: steamed


Conversation
Sloth A
I can't believe how angry I got during that meeting today.
Sloth B
You really seemed to steam when they brought up that topic.
Sloth A
Yeah, I could feel my face getting hot!
Sloth B
It's tough to stay calm when things get heated like that.

Synonyms & Antonyms
Synonyms
fume
boil
rise
Antonyms
calm
cool
dissipate
noun
Definition

A gas that is formed when water boils and turns into vapor, often used for heating or powering machines.


Example

The kettle was filled with water, and soon steam began to rise from the spout.


Conversation
Sloth A
Have you ever tried cooking vegetables with steam?
Sloth B
Yeah, it keeps them crunchy and full of flavor!
Sloth A
I love how steam makes them so vibrant.
Sloth B
transitive verb
Definition

To cook or heat food using steam, which is the vapor produced by boiling water.


Example

I like to steam vegetables to keep them healthy and tasty.


Tense Forms

Past: steamed

Past Participle: steamed


Conversation
Sloth A
Have you ever tried to steam your vegetables instead of boiling them?
Sloth B
No, I haven't! Does it really make a difference?
Sloth A
Yes, it keeps the nutrients intact and they taste fresher.
Sloth B
Root Explanation

The word 'steam' originates from Old English 'steam', meaning vapor or mist. It refers specifically to the vapor produced by boiling water.

Memory Tip

Think of 'steam' as the vapor that rises when water boils — it helps you remember that steam is essentially water in its vapor form.

Visually Confused Words
stream
asteam
team
stem
stam
seam
upsteam
streamy
Is this page helpful?
Exactly! It’s a healthier way to prepare them.

Synonyms & Antonyms
Synonyms
vapor
mist
fume
Antonyms
solid
liquid
ice
That sounds great! I should definitely steam them next time.

Synonyms & Antonyms
Synonyms
cook
heat
moisten
Antonyms
dry
cool
chill