Definition of simmer

The origin of the word "simmer" can be traced back to the Old English word "smeran," which roughly translates to "to move gently" or "to moisten." This root word evolved over time, with the Middle English version being "spoken" or "slow-cooked." In the 14th century, the word "simmeren" appeared, which meant "to cook gently" or "to bubble softly." This Old Norse-derived term slowly replaced the Anglo-Saxon word "smoren," and "simmeren" eventually transformed into the modern-day English verb "simmer." The expression "to simmer down" emerged in the late 19th century, initially as "to simmer over" to describe how food bubbles and overflows when cooked for too long. It eventually evolved into the current meaning, which refers to quelling agitation or resolving conflict. In conclusion, the word "simmer" originated from the Old English "smeran," meaning "to move gently," and underwent various changes in Old Norse and Middle English, becoming "simmeren" and eventually "simmer" in modern-day English. Its initial meaning remains relevant, describing the gentle and slow cooking process used in cooking.