# soot

/ˈsʊt/ (US) · /sˈʊt/ (UK) · CEFR B2 · Noun

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/soot
Updated: 2026-08-15

## Definition

the black powder that comes from burning things like wood or coal. It often collects inside chimneys or on walls near a fire.

For teachers: a black, powdery substance consisting largely of amorphous carbon, produced by the incomplete combustion of organic matter.

## Examples

- The chimney was full of black soot.
- After the fireplace was cleaned, a thin layer of soot settled on the white rug in the living room.
- Environmental scientists monitor the accumulation of soot in urban areas, as these fine carbon particles contribute significantly to both air pollution and the acceleration of glacial melting.

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From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.