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

The infant's vital signs were good, the Jordanian statement said, adding that local authorities had been informed of the rescue.

From Barron's • Jun. 30, 2026

The Jordanian civil defence said Klieber had been given first aid treatment, taken to a hospital and his vital signs were good.

From BBC • Jun. 30, 2026

Clinicians wearing personal protective equipment check people’s temperatures and vital signs throughout the day.

From MarketWatch • May 12, 2026

The head of the Shin Bet, Israel’s domestic security service, compared it to a patient whose vital signs were in decline.

From The Wall Street Journal • Mar. 4, 2026

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