steaming

noun

1. 1

   The action of steam on something.

   Steaming is fine for this fabric, as long as you keep the iron moving.

2. 2

   The method of cooking by immersion in steam.

   Their favorite way to cook clams is steaming.

3. 3

   The act or process of seafaring under steam power.

   Steaming was their preferred way to travel until airliners came along.

4. 4

   The raising of steam by a steam locomotive etc; the maintenance of a head of steam during operation; (metonymic) operation under load.

   Two 4-4-0s were steaming through the scenic foothills, giving rides to tourists.

   The response to firing is remarkable, and though the 280 lb. pressure seems more in the nature of a reserve for emergencies than a continuous working figure, even with the present-day apology for coal it seldom fell below 250 lb., and could always be brought up to blowing-off point with little difficulty. To this liveliness of steaming the thermic syphons are doubtless the chief contributory.

   The perfect steaming and beautiful mechanical condition of the Pacific were immediately apparent.

5. 5

   informalA form of robbery in which a large gang moves swiftly and violently through a bus or train.

adjective

1. 1

   Giving off steam.

   We were served with steaming bowls of soup.

2. 2

   Extremely hot

3. 3

   slangVery angry.

   I was steaming when I heard about their betrayal.

4. 4

   slangExtremely drunk.

   ‘Will it help or hinder if I tell you I was steaming that evening and remember nothing, full stop?’

verb

1. 1

   Also a form of steampresent participle and gerund of steam

Forms

plural

steamings

comparative

more steaming

superlative

most steaming