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Definition of hyperthermia

hyperthermia

/ˌhaɪ.pɚˈθɝː.mi.ə/
hy · per · ther · mi · a
Plural:hyperthermias
•
Adjective:hyperthermic
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hyperthermia Lexical Profile

hyperthermia Game Scores & Validity

• noun

1

A dangerous medical condition in which the body's temperature rises significantly above normal due to failed thermoregulation, often caused by prolonged exposure to extreme heat or physical exertion.

Example

"Marathon runners competing in humid weather must stay hydrated to prevent severe hyperthermia."

2

A therapeutic medical procedure in which body tissue is intentionally exposed to high temperatures to damage and kill cancer cells or enhance the effects of radiation and chemotherapy.

Example

"The oncology team recommended localized hyperthermia alongside radiation therapy to shrink the tumor."

Synonyms
View all synonyms for hyperthermia
Antonyms
View all antonyms for hyperthermia

Word Nuance & Usage

Easily confused with 'hypothermia' (dangerously low body temperature) due to their nearly identical pronunciation in casual speech. Furthermore, hyperthermia differs clinically from a fever because the body's internal temperature set point remains unchanged while external heat overwhelms its cooling mechanisms.

• Rhymes for hyperthermia

• Nearby Words

hypertension
hypertensive
hypertext
hyperthermia
hyperventilate
hyperventilation
hypervigilant

Word Origin & Etymology

Coined in the late 19th century in New Latin from the Ancient Greek prefix 'hyper-' (meaning 'over' or 'beyond') and 'therme' (meaning 'heat').

Cite this Entry

Wordmom. (2026). Definition of Hyperthermia. In Wordmom Dictionary. Retrieved Nov 5, 2026, from https://wordmom.com/dictionary/hyperthermia
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