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
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Oh, there was some life in the dying embers. Sean Keeler, Denver Post, 19 Oct. 2025 Elsewhere, embers were rekindled on a never-ending debate at keyboards across the internet and in group text message threads. Andy Greder, Twin Cities, 18 Oct. 2025 So, there’s yellow leaves falling down, and embers that fly. Destiny Jackson, Deadline, 13 Oct. 2025 There was a rusty barrel half full of wood embers. Jennifer Gonnerman, New Yorker, 6 Oct. 2025 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 22 Oct. 2025.

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

More from Merriam-Webster on ember

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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