heat exhaustion

American  

noun

1. a condition characterized by faintness, rapid pulse, nausea, profuse sweating, cool skin, and collapse, caused by prolonged exposure to heat accompanied by loss of adequate fluid and salt from the body.

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heat exhaustion British  

noun

1. Also called: heat prostration.  a condition resulting from exposure to intense heat, characterized by dizziness, abdominal cramp, and prostration Compare heatstroke

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Etymology

Origin of heat exhaustion

First recorded in 1935–40

Example Sentences

On Wednesday, Prime Minister Narendra Modi posted on X urging people to stay hydrated, carry water outdoors and watch for signs of heat exhaustion, especially among children, the elderly and outdoor workers.

From BBC • May 28, 2026

Speaking from a hospital room in the Mina camp, where authorities treat pilgrims for heat exhaustion, the health ministry's Jameel Abualenain said he was mainly concerned "about rising temperatures" affecting pilgrims.

From Barron's • May 25, 2026

Brazilian Piquet struggled with heat exhaustion in the final stages but was able to come home fifth, giving him the two points he needed to overtake Reutemann, with Laffite in sixth.

From BBC • Dec. 1, 2025

Symptoms of heat exhaustion are: a high body temperature over 103 degrees; a fast, strong pulse; damp skin, headache, dizziness, nausea, confusion and fainting.

From Los Angeles Times • Aug. 30, 2025

The sun was beating down furiously on us and I was ready to pass out from heat exhaustion.

From "Summer of the Mariposas" by Guadalupe García McCall