hot air

noun

Synonyms of hot airnext
: empty talk

Examples of hot air in a Sentence

She's full of hot air. his taking credit for the rescue was mostly hot air, since the boat was actually saved by the Coast Guard
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.
Since hot air balloons can’t be steered like airplanes, skilled pilots must climb and descend to catch winds moving in different directions to achieve this goal. Tamara Gane, Travel + Leisure, 21 Aug. 2026 Ceilings were also often taller, to spread hot air out and encourage it to rise. Mack Degeurin, Popular Science, 19 Aug. 2026 Drainages are natural low-lying areas of land that can gather hot air and smoke and then generate intense drafts that drive a fire uphill with dangerous speeds. Clara Harter, Los Angeles Times, 11 Aug. 2026 The property has plenty of experiences for guests, from a hot air balloon ride to bike trips and whiskey tastings. Condé Nast, Condé Nast Traveler, 8 Aug. 2026 See All Example Sentences for hot air

Word History

First Known Use

1873, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of hot air was in 1873

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Hot air.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/hot%20air. Accessed 25 Aug. 2026.

Kids Definition

hot air

noun
: empty talk
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