Steamers are kitchen appliances used to cook food by steaming it. They work by heating water to create steam, which then cooks the food without submerging it in water. This method helps retain nutrients and flavors, making it a healthy cooking option. Steamers can be electric or stovetop, and they often come with multiple tiers to cook different foods simultaneously. In addition to kitchen steamers, the term "steamers" can also refer to large ships powered by steam engines. These vessels were crucial in the 19th and early 20th centuries for transporting goods and passengers across oceans. The invention of steam engines, like those developed by James Watt, revolutionized maritime travel and trade.