Burning the surface of something is a process that involves applying heat to the surface in order to alter its physical properties. SINGE, SEAR, and CHAR are all terms used to describe this process. Singeing is the application of a flame or hot object to the surface of an object, usually for a short period of time. SEAR is the application of intense heat to the surface of an object, usually for a longer period of time. Charring is the application of extreme heat to the surface of an object, usually resulting in the surface being blackened or charred.