steamer
STEE-mer
/ˈstiː.mər/
An appliance that emits high-temperature steam to remove creases and refresh textiles without direct surface contact.
Steamers relax fibers through moist thermal heat, avoiding the risk of crushing fine textures or scorching delicate weaves.
The story behind the word. Derived from Old English 'steam' (vapor rising from moisture). As technology advanced from 19th-century steam engines to 20th-century tailor appliances, 'steamer' came to designate vertical appliances that emit steam to treat hanging garments.
Word relationships
- vaper: Vaper is a non-standard device term, while steamer is the universal appliance name for moist heat smoothing.
- iron: An iron uses a flat, heated soleplate direct to fabric, whereas a steamer releases vapor from a distance or light touch nozzle.
Commonly confused with
- streamer: A streamer is a long ribbon of paper or fabric decoration, whereas a steamer is a steam-emitting appliance.
Word family
- steam (verb): To apply hot water vapor to fabric.
- steaming (adjective): Emitting or filled with hot vapor.
Collocations
- garment steamer
- handheld steamer
- fabric steamer
- steam a dress
Example sentences
- "The wardrobe assistant used a handheld steamer to quickly smooth out creases on the chiffon gown before the runway show." Backstage fashion production
- "A garment steamer is ideal for refreshing velvet curtains and structured suit jackets without damaging the pile." Home garment care
Memory hook
A STEAMER lets hot STEAM release wrinkles quickly without touching the cloth. Steam away wrinkles safely.
When not to use
Do not use a steamer when you need sharp, flat creased lines (such as trousers seams), as a press or iron is required.
Fun facts
- High-temperature garment steamers not only eliminate wrinkles but also kill 99.9% of bacteria and dust mites embedded deep within coat fabrics.
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