For describing cooking:
* Grilled: This is a very common synonym, especially for meat cooked over high heat.
* Broiled: Similar to grilled, but using radiant heat from above.
* Pan-fried: This implies cooking in a pan with a small amount of oil.
* Scorched: This suggests a more intense heat, resulting in a darker, crispier surface.
* Crisped: This implies a crispy, dry texture.
* Charred: This suggests a blackened, burned surface, often used for meats.
* Burned: Similar to charred, but implies a more intense burning.
For describing a feeling or experience:
* Burned: This implies a feeling of intense pain or emotional damage.
* Marked: This suggests a lasting impression or impact.
* Scathed: This implies a feeling of being deeply hurt or wounded.
* Wounded: This suggests a feeling of emotional pain or damage.
The best synonym for "seared" will depend on the specific context and the desired nuance.