Definition of smolders:
(v) :
(intransitive, now US) To burn with no flame and little smoke.
(v) :
(intransitive, figuratively) To show signs of repressed anger or suppressed mental turmoil or other strong emotion, such as passion.
(v) :
(intransitive, figuratively) To exist in a suppressed or hidden state.
(n) :
The act of smoldering or something that smolders.