vital signs

plural noun

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

vital signs

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

vital signs

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

vital signs

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.

Word History and Origins

Origin of vital signs¹

First recorded in 1915–20

Example Sentences

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.

Read more on Science Daily

Different eras have deemed it a measure of divine anger or human sin, and more recently, as one of earth’s vital signs.

Read more on Los Angeles Times

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

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

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In development are “smart mirrors” that use sensors, displays and software to monitor changes in appearance, mood or vital signs while patients are brushing their teeth and getting ready for the day.

Read more on The Wall Street Journal