Overheated Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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overheated

[หŒoสŠvษ™rหˆhiหtษชd ]

Definition

Context #1 | Adjective

temperature control

Overheated refers to a state in which something, such as an engine or appliance, becomes excessively hot. This condition can lead to malfunctions or failures. Often, overheating can be a result of inadequate cooling or excessive workload. It is a term commonly used in mechanical and electrical contexts. In human terms, overheating can also refer to excessive body temperature due to environmental factors or strenuous activity.

Synonyms

boiling, excessively hot, scorching.

Examples of usage

  • The engine was damaged due to overheating.
  • Make sure your laptop doesn't become overheated during use.
  • The patient felt faint due to an overheated environment.

Translations

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Interesting Facts

Science

  • Everything has a melting point, and if objects exceed this temperature, they may become damaged or lose their shape.
  • In physics, overheating can lead to phase changes, such as a solid turning into a liquid, like when ice melts into water.

Health

  • Humans can experience heat exhaustion or heat stroke if overheated for an extended time, especially in high temperatures or vigorous activity.
  • Staying hydrated and cool is essential to prevent overheating during physical activities or in hot weather.

Technology

  • Modern electronics often have built-in thermal management systems to prevent overheating, ensuring they operate efficiently and safely.
  • Overheating in computers can lead to performance issues, crashing, or permanent damage, so users should ensure proper ventilation.

Cultural References

  • In literature and film, overheating is often depicted as a metaphor for excessive stress or pressure, leading characters to 'boil over'.
  • In cooking shows, chefs might talk about sauces 'overheating', indicating they've lost their ideal texture and flavor, similar to emotions when under stress.

Origin of 'overheated'

Main points about word origin

  • The word 'overheated' is formed by combining 'over', meaning too much, with 'heat', referring to warmth or temperature.
  • The term evolved in the early 20th century as machines and engines became more common and required attention to temperature control.

The term 'overheated' is derived from the combination of the prefix 'over-' meaning excess and the verb 'heat,' which originates from Old English 'hวฃtan' meaning to make hot. The usage of 'overheated' in English dates back to the early 19th century, aligning with advancements in technology that required efficient heat management, such as steam engines and later, various household appliances. Over time, the term has expanded beyond mechanical applications and is frequently used in health contexts as well, particularly during discussions about heat exhaustion and related conditions. Its usage has become more prevalent as concerns about climate change and the human body's reaction to heat have become more highlighted.


Word Frequency Rank

Positioned at #22,640, this word is part of extensive vocabulary. It's relatively rare in general usage but may be important in specific fields or formal writing.