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. —Ca Weather Bot, Sacbee.com, 1 June 2025

For example, by changing vent screens from a coarse to fine mesh that can protect homes from flying embers. —Elizabeth Marie Himchak, San Diego Union-Tribune, 8 Apr. 2025

This means that fronds should be cut flush with the trunk since frond stubs are platforms where flying embers can land. —Joshua Siskin, Orange County Register, 22 Mar. 2025

And then the camera tilts up from the throng of sweaty revelers to reveal a canopy of brightly glowing embers. —A.a. Dowd, Rolling Stone, 17 Apr. 2025

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