heat
UK[hiːt]US[hiːt]
n
The quality of being hot; high temperature.
n
The level of temperature.
n
A source of warmth, especially a heating system or a period of hot weather.
n
Intensity of feeling, especially of anger or excitement.
v
To make or become hot or warm.
Etymology
The word 'heat' originates from the Old English 'hǣtu', which meant 'heat, warmth, ardor'. This, in turn, derives from the Proto-Germanic 'haitį̄', a noun formed from the adjective 'haitaz' meaning 'hot'. The ultimate source is the Proto-Indo-European root 'kayd-', meaning 'hot' or 'to heat'. The semantic journey is direct and transparent: from the ancient concept of a hot condition, the word evolved in English to denote both the physical phenomenon of high temperature and, by metaphorical extension, the intensity of emotion or activity.
Analysis
The word 'heat' is a simplex word of Germanic origin. It functions as both a noun and a verb in its modern form.
Examples
The heat from the fire was intense.
Cook the mixture over a low heat for ten minutes.
The debate generated more heat than light.