aufkocht

Aufkocht is a German verb that translates to "boils up" or "comes to a boil" in English. It is used in a literal sense to describe the process of a liquid reaching its boiling point. For example, one might say "Das Wasser kocht auf" meaning "The water is boiling up." This refers to the physical transformation of water into steam when heated to 100 degrees Celsius (212 degrees Fahrenheit) at standard atmospheric pressure.

Beyond its literal meaning, "aufkocht" can also be used figuratively. It can describe a situation or emotion that suddenly intensifies or erupts. For instance, "Die Wut kochte in ihm auf" translates to "His anger boiled up inside him." This metaphorical usage conveys a sense of rapidly building and then overflowing emotion. Similarly, a long-forgotten memory or issue might "aufkochen," meaning it resurfaces and becomes prominent again. The context in which the verb is used is crucial for understanding whether it refers to a physical phenomenon or an emotional or situational one. The concept of "aufkochen" implies a sudden and often vigorous emergence.