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

Always fully extinguish your fire before leaving or going to sleep by dousing it with water, stirring the ashes, and making sure all embers are cold to the touch. —Krista Simmons, Sunset Magazine, 27 July 2024

Perfect for those that don’t want to dig an actual fire pit in the lawn, the concrete pit uses either charcoal or wood and includes a protective screen to prevent embers from flying around. —Kaitlin Gates, Better Homes & Gardens, 17 Aug. 2024

Mesh screens can prevent the accumulation of debris and embers under the deck. —Bryce Young Christopher Moran, WIRED, 20 July 2024

These fire tornadoes can pick up embers from already-existent fires and ignite new ones, with vortex winds exceeding 140 miles per hour. —Marina Watts, Peoplemag, 26 July 2024

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

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