Heat

Definition

Heat is a noun and a verb. As a noun, it refers to the quality of being hot, a form of energy that is transferred between systems due to a temperature difference. As a verb, it means to make something hot or to increase its temperature.

Parts of Speech

• Noun
• Verb

Pronunciation

American English

• IPA Pronunciation: /hiːt/
• Respelling: HEET

British English

• IPA Pronunciation: /hiːt/
• Respelling: HEET

Etymology

The word "heat" originates from Old English "hǣtu," meaning "heat or warmth," derived from Proto-Germanic "*haita," related to Proto-Indo-European "*kai-" (to burn or heat). The term has been in use since early medieval times to describe both physical warmth and emotional intensity.

Derivatives

• Heated (adjective)
• Heating (noun)
• Overheat (verb)
• Heatwave (noun)
• Reheat (verb)

Synonyms

• Warmth
• Temperature
• Fire

Antonyms

• Cold
• Coolness
• Chill

Usage

The noun "heat" is used in sentences like "The heat from the sun was intense." As a verb, it is used in sentences such as "She heated the soup before serving."

Related Terms

• Thermal: Relating to heat or temperature.
• Temperature: A measure of the warmth or coldness of an object.
• Energy: The capacity to do work, often transferred as heat.

Detailed Definitions

Noun

• The quality of being hot or warm: Refers to the physical sensation of high temperature.
  • Example: "The desert's heat was unbearable."
• A form of energy associated with temperature: Describes the energy transfer due to a temperature difference.
  • Example: "The heat generated by the engine needs to be dissipated."
• Intensity of passion or emotion: Refers to fervor or ardor in an emotional context.
  • Example: "The debate was conducted in the heat of the moment."

Verb

• To make or become warm or hot: Refers to increasing temperature.
  • Example: "He heated the water for tea."
• To intensify in emotion or activity: Describes increasing fervor or excitement.
  • Example: "The argument heated up quickly."