ember

noun

em·​ber ˈem-bər 

1

: a glowing fragment (as of coal) from a fire

especially : one smoldering in ashes

2

embers plural : the smoldering remains of a fire

3

embers plural : slowly dying or fading emotions, memories, ideas, or responses still capable of being revived

the embers of his past

Examples of ember in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

As for the house, experts advise covering vents where embers could sneak in with mesh, using multi-pane windows that can resist extreme heat, and building walls and roofs out of noncombustible materials. — Los Angeles Times, 15 Oct. 2026

They may have been used to carry food or scoop embers, much like the bark dishes called coolamons used by Aboriginal Australians. — Jacek Krywko, ArsTechnica, 9 Oct. 2026

Smoky in scent only, the ember candle from Jenni Kayne embodies the best parts of late night fires without being too heavy. — Julia Harrison, Architectural Digest, 10 Sep. 2026

Now, Yasmen is finally starting to find joy, but proximity to Josiah keeps the embers hot despite reopening old wounds. — Peter White, Deadline, 10 Sep. 2026

Word History

Etymology

Middle English eymere, from Old Norse eimyrja; akin to Old English ǣmerge ashes, Latin urere to burn

First Known Use

14th century, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Phrases Containing ember

• ember day

Rhymes for ember

• member
• crewmember
• december
• dismember
• nonmember
• november
• remember
• september

Kids Definition

ember

noun

em·​ber ˈem-bər 

: a glowing piece of coal or wood from a fire

especially : such a piece smoldering in ashes