Swelter: meaning, definitions and examples
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swelter
[ˈswɛltər ]
Definitions
weather condition
To swelter means to suffer from oppressive heat. This can refer to both the environment's temperature and to a person's physical discomfort due to heat. It's often used to describe extreme weather situations, such as sweltering summer days. The term captures the feeling of being overheated and uncomfortable, often leading to sweating and fatigue.
Synonyms
Examples of usage
- We sweltered in the summer sun.
- He sweltered while waiting for the bus.
- The tourists sweltered in the heat during their vacation.
figurative usage
Swelter can also be used metaphorically to describe an emotional state that feels stifling or oppressive. In this context, it can refer to feeling overwhelmed by stress or discomfort in a social situation. This figurative meaning emphasizes the feeling of being trapped in an unbearable situation, akin to the physical sensation of heat.
Synonyms
Examples of usage
- She sweltered under the pressure of deadlines.
- He sweltered during the tense meeting.
- They sweltered with embarrassment when called out.
Interesting Facts
Etymology
- The word comes from the Old English 'sweltan', which means 'to die or perish', linking extreme heat with discomfort.
- In Middle English, 'sweltren' also referred to being overcome by heat, showing long-standing discomfort associated with high temperatures.
- The evolution of the term illustrates how cultures have historically linked heat with feelings of distress or unease.
Climate and Weather
- Extreme heat can lead to heat-related illnesses, emphasizing the importance of hydration and staying cool.
- Sweltering conditions are common in tropical regions, where high humidity levels make the temperature feel even hotter.
- Heat waves, described as sweltering periods, can increase the risk of wildfires and affect local ecosystems significantly.
Psychology
- Studies show that high temperatures can affect mood, making people more prone to irritation or aggression.
- Feeling sweltered can impair cognitive performance, highlighting the impact of environmental conditions on productivity.
- Seasonal Affective Disorder often ties into feelings of discomfort when the weather becomes too hot or too cold, affecting mental health.
Literature
- In classic literature, sweltering settings often symbolize characters' emotional turmoil or inner conflict.
- Authors frequently use hot environments to reflect tension in a narrative, making the reader feel the discomfort of characters.
- The intense heat in stories can serve as a backdrop for critical events, amplifying the drama and urgency in narratives.
Pop Culture
- Sweltering heat is a common theme in summer songs, often evoking feelings of nostalgia and carefree days.
- Movies set in hot climates often show characters dealing with the heat, adding depth to their challenges.
- Fashion trends in summer often reflect the need for light, breathable clothing due to sweltering temperatures.
Translations
Translations of the word "swelter" in other languages:
🇵🇹 suor
🇮🇳 कड़ी गर्मी
🇩🇪 Schwüle
🇮🇩 kegerahan
🇺🇦 спекотіти
🇵🇱 upał
🇯🇵 蒸し暑い
🇫🇷 suer
🇪🇸 sofocar
🇹🇷 bunaltmak
🇰🇷 더위에 시달리다
🇸🇦 عرق
🇨🇿 potit se
🇸🇰 potenie
🇨🇳 闷热
🇸🇮 znoj
🇮🇸 sudda
🇰🇿 терлеу
🇬🇪 სითბო
🇦🇿 istilik
🇲🇽 sofocar