ember

noun

em·​ber ˈem-bər How to pronounce ember (audio)
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
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But from the embers of the hurt is the knowledge that this is an Arsenal that truly belongs on this stage. Amy Lawrence, New York Times, 31 May 2026 Get one before the embers die out. Juhi Wadia, PC Magazine, 26 May 2026 Even minor parks or embers might be carried into leaves or grass, kindling a fire that can swiftly expand. Ca Weather Bot, Sacbee.com, 25 May 2026 Pesky, tiny embers are another big risk, as they get sucked into a home’s vents when the wind increases, creating negative pressure at the house. The Editors, Robb Report, 25 May 2026 See All Example Sentences for ember

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

Time Traveler
The first known use of ember was in the 14th century

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Ember.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/ember. Accessed 4 Jun. 2026.

Kids Definition

ember

noun
em·​ber ˈem-bər How to pronounce ember (audio)
: a glowing piece of coal or wood from a fire
especially : such a piece smoldering in ashes

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