hypothermia
hy-puh-THUR-mee-uh
/ˌhaɪpəˈθɜːrmiə/
A dangerous medical condition where core body temperature drops below normal operating levels due to prolonged exposure to cold.
Refers to systemic core cooling, not localized skin freezing (which is frostbite).
The story behind the word. Constructed in 19th-century medical science using Greek roots: 'hypo-' meaning below normal (as in hypoglycemia) and 'therme' meaning heat (as in thermometer). Together it literally translates to 'under-heating'.
Word relationships
- freezing: Freezing is informal weather or sensation language, while hypothermia is a specific medical internal core condition.
- hyperthermia: Hyperthermia is dangerously high core body temperature (heatstroke).
Commonly confused with
- frostbite: Frostbite freezes superficial bodily tissues (fingers, nose); hypothermia drops the core temperature of the entire body.
Word family
- hypothermic (adjective): Suffering from or related to dangerously low body temperature.
Collocations
- severe hypothermia
- onset of hypothermia
- treat hypothermia
- hypothermia symptoms
Example sentences
- "Exposed to freezing wind and rain without waterproof gear, the lost hiker quickly developed signs of severe hypothermia." Wilderness emergency
- "Rescuers wrapped the victim in insulated blankets to halt the onset of hypothermia during the long helicopter transport." Clinical treatment
Memory hook
HYPO (below) + THERM (heat) = Body temperature falling BELOW safe heat levels. Dangerously low core body temperature.
When not to use
Do not confuse with localized tissue damage like frostbite, or mild surface feeling of coldness.
Fun facts
- Hypothermia can occur even in 50°F (10°C) weather if clothing remains wet and wind chill carries away heat.
Related words
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