heat wave

noun

: 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.
Why the tree-ring findings matter These findings help scientists connect the dots between ocean temperatures, atmospheric circulation and extreme weather, which could eventually improve forecasting for heat waves and droughts. Hayleigh Evans, AZCentral.com, 13 Oct. 2025 As for the Deep South, expect a heat wave. Sophia Beams, Better Homes & Gardens, 11 Oct. 2025 Phoenix firefighters treat a homeless man during a heat wave on May 30, 2024, in Phoenix. Denise Chow, NBC news, 11 Oct. 2025 As the planet sees longer and more intense heat waves with global warming, primarily caused by humans burning fossil fuels, Mainzer says solar combined with batteries, both of which perform well in the heat, will be important to keep the lights on. Julia Simon, NPR, 8 Oct. 2025 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 21 Oct. 2025.

Kids Definition

heat wave

noun
: a period of unusually hot weather

More from Merriam-Webster on heat wave

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