Scorch

SINGE

Lightly burn the edges of fabric or paper to get this five-letter word.

"Scorch" hints at burning something lightly, which is exactly what "singe" means—to burn the surface slightly without fully charring it. The clue plays on the idea of heat damage, but on a smaller scale, making "singe" the perfect fit. It’s a straightforward definition with no hidden wordplay, just a direct match for a mild burn.