Search results for 'heat':

heat noun 1 a form of energy that is stored as the energy of vibration or motion (kinetic energy) of the atoms or molecules of a material. 2 a high temperature; warmth; the state of being hot. 3 hot weather. 4 intensity of feeling, especially anger or excitement • the heat of the argument. 5 the most intense part • in the heat of the battle. 6 sport a a preliminary race or contest which eliminates some competitors; b a single section in a contest. 7 oestrus, a period of sexual receptivity in some female mammals. 8 redness of the skin, especially when sore, with a feeling of heat • prickly heat. 9 colloq police investigation following a crime • The heat is on. 10 colloq, chiefly US criticism or abuse. verb (heated, heating) tr & intr 1 to make or become hot or warm. 2 to make or become intense or excited. in or on heat said of some female mammals: ready to mate. See also oestrus. in the heat of the moment without pausing to think. take the heat out of something to lessen the vehemence or acrimony of (a situation, etc). turn on the heat colloq to use brutal treatment in order to coerce.
ETYMOLOGY: Anglo-Saxon hætu.