'sear' originates from Old English, specifically the word 'sēarian,' where 'sēar' meant 'dry' or 'withered.'

'sēarian' transformed into the Middle English word 'searen,' and eventually became the modern English word 'sear.'

Initially, it meant 'to dry up or wither,' but over time it evolved into its current meaning of 'to burn or scorch the surface.'