Definition

Noun: 1. A natural spring that emits water at a temperature significantly higher than the ambient air temperature: The water is heated geothermally by the Earth's internal heat before rising to the surface. 2. A place or resort featuring such springs, often used for bathing, relaxation, or health purposes: Refers to the location itself, which may be developed or remain in a natural state.

Usage

• The term is typically used in the plural form "hot springs" even when referring to a single spring or location.
• It functions as a common noun but can be part of a proper noun for specific place names (e.g., Hot Springs, Arkansas).

Examples

• General Noun:
  • The region is famous for its natural hot springs.
  • We soaked in the hot springs to relax our muscles after hiking.
  • The hot springs are heated by volcanic activity deep underground.
• As a Place Name:
  • They vacationed in Hot Springs, Virginia.

Advanced Usage

• "to take the waters": A historical phrase meaning to visit a spa or hot springs for health benefits.
  • In the 19th century, many people would travel to hot springs to take the waters.

Variants and Related Words

• Thermal spring: A more technical synonym for hot spring.
• Spa: A resort or location with mineral springs, often but not always hot, used for health and wellness. A developed hot springs resort is a type of spa.
• Geyser: A specific type of hot spring that intermittently erupts, ejecting a column of hot water and steam.

Synonyms

• Thermal spring
• Warm spring
• Geothermal spring

Related Phrases

• Mineral springs: Springs containing dissolved minerals, which may or may not also be hot.
• Hot spring resort: A commercial establishment built around one or more hot springs.

Noun

1. a town in west central Arkansas; a health resort noted for thermal springs