Definition

Noun: * The internal temperature of a living organism: "body temperature" refers to the degree of heat present in the body of a human or animal. It is a vital sign and a key indicator of physiological state and health.

Usage

• The term "body temperature" is used to discuss health, medical conditions, and biological norms. It is typically measured with a thermometer.
• It is often modified by adjectives describing its state (e.g., , , , , ).

Examples

• Noun:
  • A normal body temperature for a human is approximately 98.6 degrees Fahrenheit.
  • The nurse checked the patient's body temperature every four hours.
  • Fever is characterized by a significantly elevated body temperature.
  • Hypothermia occurs when body temperature drops dangerously low.

Advanced Usage

• "Core body temperature": This refers to the temperature of the internal organs, as opposed to the temperature at the skin surface. It is the most accurate reflection of the body's thermal state.
  • Athletes monitor their core body temperature to avoid heatstroke during intense training.

Variants and Related Words

• Temperature (n): The general measure of heat. "Body temperature" is a specific type of temperature.
• Fever (n): A temporary increase in body temperature, often due to illness.
• Hypothermia (n): A dangerous condition involving abnormally low body temperature.
• Thermoregulation (n): The process by which an organism maintains its body temperature.

Synonyms

• Temperature (when context clearly refers to the body)
• Core temperature (more specific)

Related Phrases

• Run a temperature: To have a fever.
  • The child is running a temperature, so we should call the doctor.
• Take someone's temperature: To measure body temperature.
  • The mother took her son's temperature with an ear thermometer.

Noun

1. temperature of the body; normally 98.6 F or 37 C in humans; usually measured to obtain a quick evaluation of a person's health