vital signs

American  

plural noun

1. essential body functions, comprising pulse rate, body temperature, and respiration, used as a measure of health or physical condition.

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vital signs British  

plural noun

1. med indications that a person is still alive. Vital signs include a heartbeat, a pulse that can be felt, breathing, and body temperature

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vital signs Scientific  

1. The pulse rate, temperature, respiratory rate, and usually blood pressure of an individual.

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vital signs Cultural  

1. The pulse rate, blood pressure, body temperature, and rate of respiration of a person. The vital signs are usually measured to obtain a quick evaluation of the person's general physical condition.

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Etymology

Origin of vital signs

First recorded in 1915–20

Example Sentences

But a rate cut doesn’t look likely based on the labor market’s recent vital signs.

From MarketWatch • Mar. 5, 2026

Beyond these behavioral improvements, the compound proved non-toxic in both hippocampal cell cultures and the animals themselves, whose vital signs were closely followed throughout the experiments.

From Science Daily • Nov. 19, 2025

“The planet’s vital signs are flashing red,” the scientists wrote in their annual report on the state of the climate.

From Los Angeles Times • Oct. 29, 2025

She had her blood pressure and vital signs taken during the second set and was given something to eat and drink by the physio.

From BBC • Oct. 14, 2025

As prudent and thorough as old family doctors, they examined every aspect of the air flowing over the plane, making careful note of the vital signs.

From "Hidden Figures" by Margot Lee Shetterly