1. burn or scorch the surface of (something) with a sudden, intense heat: the water got so hot that it seared our lips a sharp pang of disappointment seared her 2. (of pain) be experienced as a sudden, burning sensation: a crushing pain seared through his chest 3. brown (food) quickly at a high temperature so that it will retain its juices in subsequent cooking: sear the chicken livers in a pan for a few minutes on each side 4. cause to wither. 5. make (someone's conscience, heart, or feelings) insensitive.