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.
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 Winds created flames up to 200 feet long and sent embers flying up to two miles away, according to the LA County report. Chiara Eisner, NPR, 2 Oct. 2025 Even minor sparks or drifting embers can incite nearby foliage or grass, setting off a rapidly spreading fire. Ca Weather Bot, Sacbee.com, 26 Sep. 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 17 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
Love words? Need even more definitions?

Subscribe to America's largest dictionary and get thousands more definitions and advanced search—ad free!