simmer Definition
sim·mer (sim′ər)
intransitive verb
- to remain at or just below the boiling point, usually forming tiny bubbles with a low, murmuring sound
- to be about to break out, as in anger, revolt, etc.
Etymology: earlier simper < LME simperen: orig. echoic
transitive verb
- to keep (a liquid) at or just below the boiling point
- to cook in such a liquid
noun
the state of simmering
simmer Idioms
simmer down
- to condense by simmering, as a liquid
- ☆ to become calm; cool off
simmer Synonyms
simmer
v.
simmer Usage Examples
Object
- discontent: This strike ignited the simmering discontent that surrounds low pay in the public sector.
- resentment: Hollingsworth's anger was matched by Lis Howell's simmering resentment toward her one-time masters at GMTV.
- tension: It brought views held behind closed doors into the open, and revealed the simmering tensions in the UK on the matter.
- sauce: Reduce the heat to low and simmer the sauce for 2 to 3 minutes.
- anger: The attempt to dehumanize proletarians produced a simmering anger which sometimes boiled over into social unrest.
- water: Keep them warm in a low oven or over a pan of simmering water, with a tent of foil over them.
Preposition: on
- stove: Our first dinner aboard was simmering on the stove.
- heat: Add water to suit, bring to the boil then simmer on lowest heat possible.
Preposition: over
heat: Bring mixture to the boil, then simmer gently over a low heat for about five minutes.
Particle object:
heat: Add shallots and simmer over low heat for 5 to 6 minutes.
Modifying Another Word
gently: Bring to boil, simmer gently for 30 minutes.
Preposition: until
- tender: Bring to the boil, cover and simmer until almost tender, about 10 minutes.
- sauce: Strain the mixture into a clean saucepan and simmer until the sauce is thick enough to coat the back of a spoon.
- vegetable: Bring to the boil and simmer gently until the vegetables are tender.
- potato: Reduce the heat and simmer until the potatoes are cooked through but still hold their shape.
- mixture: Add the caustic soda and continue to simmer until the mixture becomes honey colored.
Preposition: with
lid: Bring to the boil then simmer with the lid on for about 10 mins.
Preposition: for
Browse dictionary entries near simmer
- ‹ Simmental
- ‹ Simla
- ‹ simious
- ‹ similitude
- ‹ simile
- ‹ similarly
- ‹ similarity
- ‹ similar
- ‹ simian
- ‹ Simi Valley

