heat wave

American  

[heet weyv] / ˈhit ˌweɪv /

Or heatwave

noun

Meteorology, Climatology.

1. a period of abnormally hot and usually humid weather; heat event.

   I moved to the coast up north because summer back home has become one long, unbearable heat wave.

2. an air mass of high temperature covering an extended area and moving relatively slowly.

   Another heat wave is expected to form across the South and into the Northeast by week’s end.

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heat wave British  

noun

1. a continuous spell of abnormally hot weather

2. (not in technical use) an extensive slow-moving air mass at a relatively high temperature

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Etymology

Origin of heat wave

First recorded in 1875–80

Example Sentences

Iran, a largely arid country, has for years suffered chronic dry spells and heat waves, which are expected to worsen with climate change.

From Barron's

Capacity auctions are designed to pay power plants for being available to meet demand, including on high-demand days like during a heat wave.

From Barron's

Climate change, including extreme heat and frequent heat waves, is already known to harm ecosystems, agriculture, and human health.

From Science Daily

During a heat wave three years ago, friends brought electric fans and bags of ice to cool his library.

From The Wall Street Journal

Gas plants sometimes have to run on oil during heat waves or frigid weather, but this is expensive and can violate state emissions standards.

From The Wall Street Journal

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