Definition

Describing weather that is oppressively hot and humid, making it uncomfortable.

Example

The sweltry afternoon made everyone seek shade and cool drinks.

Comparatives & Superlatives

Conversation

Wow, it feels really sweltry outside today, doesn’t it?

Yeah, I can barely stand the heat!

I hope it cools down by the evening.

Me too! We should grab some ice cream to beat the heat.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Sweltry is derived from the Old English word 'sweltan' (meaning to die or perish) and the suffix '-y' (indicating a quality or condition). The word 'sweltry' describes a condition that is oppressively hot, evoking a sense of discomfort akin to dying from heat.

Memory Tip

Imagine the feeling of being so hot that you could 'perish' ('sweltan') from it — that's what 'sweltry' means, a condition of extreme heat.

Visually Confused Words