adjective
torrid
TOR-id/ˈtɔːrɪd/
Intensely hot.
The hiker wipes away sweat in the torrid landscape.
Etymology
The root evokes parching or scorching heat. That physical heat became a figure for emotional heat, allowing torrid to describe ardent passion as well as extremely hot conditions.
In context
A barrage of torrid racist abuse would follow. Again, Southgate stepped up and not only defended his players, but took the blame, as coach.
More examples
- The torrid afternoon sends everyone searching for shade.
- Few plants thrive in this torrid desert climate.
- Even after sunset, the air remains torrid.
Forms
torrid
Similar words
- scorching
- Emphasizes heat strong enough to feel burning or damaging.
- sweltering
- Emphasizes oppressive heat that makes people sweat and feel uncomfortable.