Meaning & Definition of word "Hypothermia"

Hypothermia

/ˌhaɪpəˈθɜːrmiə/

noun:

  • 1. a medical emergency that occurs when the body loses heat faster than it can produce it, resulting in a dangerously low body temperature.
    • Example: After spending hours in the cold water, he was diagnosed with hypothermia.
  • 2. a condition characterized by a drop in body temperature below 95°F (35°C).
    • Example: The hikers were warned about the risk of hypothermia in the freezing weather conditions.
  • 3. a state in which the body temperature falls below the normal range due to prolonged exposure to cold.
    • Example: Children are particularly vulnerable to hypothermia during winter storms if they are not properly dressed.

Etymology

Derived from the Greek words 'hypo-' meaning under or below, and 'thermia' meaning heat.

Common Phrases and Expressions

mild hypothermia:

A less severe form of hypothermia, often treatable without extensive medical intervention.

severe hypothermia:

A critical condition requiring immediate medical attention.

hypothermic reaction:

The body's response to extreme cold, which can include shivering, confusion, and fatigue.

Related Words

hyperthermia:

A condition in which the body temperature is elevated beyond normal limits.

frostbite:

Injury to body tissues caused by extreme cold, often related to hypothermia.

Slang Meanings of hypothermia

Meaning: Chill-out syndrome

Example Sentence: When she didn't wear a jacket in the snow, I told her she was asking for a chill-out syndrome.

Meaning: Ice cube syndrome

Example Sentence: He was so cold at the lake that I joked he had ice cube syndrome.