heatstroke

American  

[heet-strohk] / ˈhitˌstroʊk /

noun

1. a disturbance of the temperature-regulating mechanisms of the body caused by overexposure to excessive heat, resulting in fever, hot and dry skin, and rapid pulse, sometimes progressing to delirium and coma.

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heatstroke British  

/ ˈhiːtˌstrəʊk /

noun

1. a condition resulting from prolonged exposure to intense heat, characterized by high fever and in severe cases convulsions and coma See sunstroke

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Etymology

Origin of heatstroke

First recorded in 1870–75; heat + stroke ¹

Example Sentences

To protect against heatstroke, he said people must "drink enough water, use umbrellas and avoid prolonged exposure to the sun".

From Barron's • May 25, 2026

Call 999 if you suspect someone has heatstroke.

From BBC • May 20, 2026

This can put a strain on their respiratory tract, making them more susceptible to heatstroke.

From MarketWatch • May 19, 2026

In August 2011, three high-school players in Georgia and Florida died of heatstroke.

From The Wall Street Journal • Mar. 16, 2026

“One can die of heatstroke any day in this desert,” Father said.

From "Tasting the Sky" by Ibtisam Barakat