heat wave

noun

Synonyms of heat wavenext
: a period of unusually hot weather

Examples of heat wave in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
In 2023, Newsom announced California's landmark lawsuit against major oil companies, accusing them of deceiving the public about climate change and linking fossil fuel emissions to worsening heat waves, droughts and devastating wildfires. Kenny Choi, CBS News, 23 May 2026 During our recent two-day heat wave, their heat post carried eye-catching facts. Voice Of The People, New York Daily News, 22 May 2026 In the near future, a global heat wave that begins in India kills millions and spreads around the world. The Week Us, TheWeek, 20 May 2026 At the time, funding was very limited, and leaders recognized the increasingly urgent need to address the impacts of climate change, such as prolonged extreme heat waves and wildfires. Monica Samayoa, NPR, 20 May 2026 See All Example Sentences for heat wave

Word History

First Known Use

1893, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of heat wave was in 1893

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Heat wave.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/heat%20wave. Accessed 28 May. 2026.

Kids Definition

heat wave

noun
: a period of unusually hot weather

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