The phrase "scalding hot" is commonly used to describe very hot liquid or food items. In IPA phonetic transcription, the word "scalding" is spelled /ˈskɔːldɪŋ/. The "sc" digraph is pronounced as /sk/, while the "a" is a short vowel sound /ɔː/. The syllable "-ding" ends with a hard "g" sound /ɪŋ/, which is preceded by a short "i" sound /ɪ/. The overall pronunciation of "scalding" gives the word a sharp and intense sound, reflecting its meaning of extreme heat.
Scalding hot is an idiomatic expression used to describe something that is extremely hot to the point of causing a burn or scald upon contact. It is a phrase commonly used to indicate the temperature of a liquid or an object.
The term "scalding" typically refers to the action of burning or injuring the skin with a hot liquid or steam. Therefore, when something is described as "scalding hot," it emphasizes the severity and intensity of the heat. The term implies that the object or liquid is at a temperature so high that it could potentially cause immediate harm or discomfort.
When used in relation to liquids, such as water, coffee, or soup, "scalding hot" suggests that the liquid is heated to the highest possible temperature without reaching its boiling point. It implies that the liquid is too hot to consume immediately and requires caution and time to cool down to a safe temperature.
Furthermore, "scalding hot" can also describe the high temperature of an object, like a stove, an iron, or a metal surface. In these cases, the term suggests that the object is heated to an extreme temperature that could easily cause burns or injuries upon contact.
Overall, "scalding hot" is a phrase that conveys the intensity of heat and serves as a warning to avoid direct contact due to the risk of burning or scalding.
Hot enough to scald.
Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.
The word "scalding" originates from the Old English word "scealdan" meaning "to burn with hot liquid or steam", derived from the Proto-Germanic root "skald-" which also meant "to scorch". This root had cognates in other Germanic languages, such as Old Norse "skoll" and Old High German "scaldan". Over time, "scalding" came to specifically refer to extremely hot temperatures that can cause burns. The expression "scalding hot" combines the adjective "scalding" with the intensifier "hot" to emphasize the extreme temperature.