ClimateAugust 17, 2026
hyperthermia
hy-pur-THUR-mee-uh
Definition
A condition where the body temperature is abnormally high, often caused by prolonged exposure to extreme heat.
Etymology
The word is derived from the Greek 'hyper' (over/beyond) and 'therme' (heat), combining these roots to describe an excess of body heat.
In the news
The article mentions this term to explain the medical cause of death for individuals affected by Chicago's extreme summer heat waves. It highlights the dangerous health consequences when body temperatures reach lethal levels.
Protecting mature trees from storms and disease can reduce Chicago deaths, study finds
Read the full article ↗Chicago Tribune