Torrid Meaning and Definition
Torrid
Pronunciation
/ˈtɔrdɪd/
Part of Speech
Adjective
Definition
A torrid (adjective) refers to a state of extremely hot or oppressive weather; intense heat or dryness, often accompanied by sweltering temperatures and humidity.
Synonyms: hot, sweltering, scorching, sultry, stifling.
Examples
1. “The torrid summer months made it difficult to work outside.”
2. “The torrid desert sun beat down on the travelers as they trekked across the dunes.”
Synonyms
1. Hot
2. Sweltering
3. Scorching
4. Sultry
5. Stifling
Antonyms
1. Cold
2. Chilly
3. Refreshing
Etymology
The word ‘torrid’ originated from the Latin term ‘torridus’, meaning ‘burnt’ or ‘scorched’, which was derived from the verb ‘torrere’, meaning ‘to burn’. The term was later adapted into Middle English as ‘torrid’, which conveyed the idea of intense heat or dryness.
Usage Notes
The term ‘torrid’ can be used to describe weather conditions, environments, or situations where extreme heat or dryness is present. For example:
1. “The torrid air made it difficult to walk outside.”
2. “The torrid conditions in the desert required specialized equipment.”
Cultural References
The term ‘torrid’ has been used in various cultural contexts, including:
1. Literature: In Edgar Allan Poe’s ‘The Raven’, the poem’s narrator experiences a sense of torrid darkness and despair.
2. Music: The term ‘torrid’ is used in titles of songs, such as ‘Torrid Affair’ by The Mamas & The Papas.
Idiomatic Expressions or Phrases
Certain idiomatic expressions or phrases incorporate the word ‘torrid’, including:
1. “Torrid affair”: a romantic or passionate relationship that is intense or all-consuming.
2. “Torrid heat”: extremely hot or sweltering temperatures, often accompanied by high humidity.
Collocations
Common word combinations with the term ‘torrid’ include:
1. “Torrid summer”
2. “Torrid desert”
3. “Torrid affair”
Frequency of Use
According to Google Ngram Viewer, the frequency of the word ‘torrid’ in written works has increased over the past century, with a significant spike in usage during the mid-20th century.
Common Misspellings
Common misspellings or variations of the word ‘torrid’ include:
1. Torrids
2. Torread
3. Torridy