heat

heat · noun

imported

Definitions

noun

  1. 1.

    The quality of being hot; high temperature.

  2. 2.

    To make or become hot or warm.

  3. 3.

    A form of energy arising from the random motion of molecules.

  4. 4.

    Intensity of feeling, especially anger or excitement.

  5. 5.

    A preliminary round of a race or competition.

  6. 6.

    A period when a female mammal is fertile and ready to mate.

Forms

plural: heats

Phrases & expressions

  • •
    in the heat of the moment — acting impulsively due to strong emotions
  • •
    take the heat — endure criticism or pressure
  • •
    turn up the heat — increase pressure or intensity
  • •
    if you can't stand the heat, get out of the kitchen — if you cannot handle pressure, leave

Related words

Antonyms: chill, cold, coolness
See also: fire, hot, temperature, warm
Synonyms: hotness, temperature, warmth

Etymology

From Old English "hǣtu" (heat, warmth), from Proto-Germanic "*haitī," related to "hāt" (hot). The verb sense developed from the noun in Middle English. Cognate with German "Hitze" and Dutch "hitte."