radiant heat

American  

noun

Thermodynamics.

1. heat energy transmitted by electromagnetic waves in contrast to heat transmitted by conduction or convection.

---

radiant heat British  

noun

1. heat transferred in the form of electromagnetic radiation rather than by conduction or convection; infrared radiation

---

Etymology

Origin of radiant heat

First recorded in 1500–10

Example Sentences

Recent studies into fire mechanics have generally found that the intense heat from wildfire can quickly dry out these plants, making them susceptible to ignition from embers, flames and radiant heat.

From Los Angeles Times • Jan. 13, 2026

The radiant heat installer and electrician were happy.

From Seattle Times • Dec. 25, 2023

Like any hot object, it was giving off radiant heat -- what we’d now call long-wave infrared radiation.

From Scientific American • Nov. 9, 2023

The researchers investigated the complex interplay between the transfer of radiant heat and the thermochemical reaction.

From Science Daily • Oct. 27, 2023

You see there is a strong current of air passing up the tube, all of which must come from the far end, flowing against the strong current of radiant heat going in the opposite direction.

From Lectures on Ventilation Being a Course Delivered in the Franklin Institute of Philadelphia by Leeds, Lewis W.