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

Even minor sparks or drifting embers can incite nearby foliage or grass, setting off a rapidly spreading fire. —Nc Weather Bot, Charlotte Observer, 28 Mar. 2026

Even sparks or embers carried by the wind can ignite nearby leaves or grass, triggering a fire that spreads rapidly. —Kansas City Star Weather Bot, Kansas City Star, 27 Mar. 2026

Firefighters used bulldozers overnight to cut containment lines and monitored surrounding areas for embers. —Dante Motley, Austin American Statesman, 23 Mar. 2026

The exterior is wrapped in a fire-resistant corten steel shell with sliding ember screens. —Tori Latham, Robb Report, 20 Mar. 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
• 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