1. (v.) To burn a surface to dryness and hardness; to cauterize; to brand; to expose to a degree of heat such as changes the color or the hardness and texture of the surface; to scorch; to make callous; as, to sear the skin or flesh. Also used figuratively.

2. (a.) Alt. of Sere.

3. (v.) To wither; to dry up.

4. (n.) The catch in a gunlock by which the hammer is held cocked or half cocked.