Pronunciation: [smˈə͡ʊldəz] (IPA) 
The word "smolders" is spelled with a "d" in the middle, despite the fact that it is often pronounced without the "d" sound. The reason for this is that the "d" sound is technically present in the word, but it is pronounced very lightly or completely left out in casual speech. The IPA phonetic transcription for "smolders" is /ˈsmoʊldərz/, with the "d" sound indicated by the "dərz" at the end of the transcription.
Smolders is a verb that refers to the slow burning or smoldering of a substance, typically with smoke emitted. It implies a state of combustion or ignition that generates low intensity heat and produces a steady release of smoke and sometimes small flames. This phenomenon occurs when a fire lacks the necessary oxygen to burn rapidly and instead emits smoky fumes. The resulting fire is characterized by its subdued and lingering nature, often characterized by the faint, glowing embers and intermittent smoke that emanate from the burning material.
The term smolders can also be used metaphorically to describe a hidden, suppressed, or dormant state of intense feelings, emotions, or conflicts. In this context, it suggests that something powerful is simmering just beneath the surface, ready to burst forth or have its impact realized. This figurative usage conveys the notion of pent-up emotions or tensions that are restrained yet remain intense and volatile. These smoldering emotions may lead to an eventual eruption or release, often with drastic consequences.
Overall, smolders refers to both a physical and metaphorical state of slow, restrained combustion. Whether describing a fire's subdued burning or symbolizing hidden emotions, the term conveys a sense of energy and potential, with the suggestion that something significant may occur if the circumstances change or escalate.
* The statistics data for these misspellings percentages are collected from over 15,411,110 spell check sessions on www.spellchecker.net from Jan 2010 - Jun 2012.
The word "smolders" derives from the Middle English word "smolderen", which can be traced back to the Old English word "smorian". In turn, "smorian" finds its roots in the Proto-Germanic word "smōrian", meaning "to smolder or to smoke without flame". Ultimately, the term can be related to the Proto-Indo-European root word "smōu", which signifies "to extinguish or flicker".
