English Reference
Idiom idiom

heat wave


A period of exceptionally hot weather.

Meaning adapted from Wiktionary, available under CC BY-SA 4.0.


SIMPLE

We had a heat wave last July.

CONTEXTUAL

The city opened cooling centers after a heat wave pushed temperatures above 40 degrees.

COMPLEX

Farmers watched helplessly as the relentless heat wave scorched their crops and dried the rivers to cracked mud.


Related idioms8entries
  1. 01

    catch a wave

    To derive benefit from a fortunate opportunity; to experience a sudden increase in energy or luck.

  2. 02

    catch heat

    To get into trouble with somebody; to be scolded or chastised.

  3. 03

    dead heat

    a close race or contest in which no winner is apparent

  4. 04

    make waves

    To cause a disturbance.

  5. 05

    pack heat

    To carry one or more handguns on one's person, especially in a concealed manner.

  6. 06

    ride the crest of the wave

    To go through a period of maximal prosperity.

  7. 07

    ride the wave

    To take advantage of a profitable period.

  8. 08

    turn up the heat

    To increase the intensity of activity or discomfort.

Last updated August 10, 2026