Baking hot, a term frequently used in summer, describes an extremely hot temperature. The spelling of "baking" is not particularly difficult, with a simple "b" sound, an "ay" as in "face" sound, and a "k" sound. However, the stress of the word lies on the second syllable, and the final "g" is often silent. In IPA phonetic transcription, the word would be written as /ˈbeɪkɪŋ hɒt/. So, if you find yourself in a baking hot location this summer, you'll know exactly how to spell it!
The term "baking hot" is an idiomatic expression used to describe scorching or extremely high temperatures. It refers to weather conditions characterized by intense heat, as if the surrounding environment were being heated in an oven or under the direct rays of the sun. This phrase is prevalent in regions with hot climates or during heatwaves, and it vividly conveys the unbearable or uncomfortable nature of such weather.
When a place or situation is described as "baking hot," it means that the heat is so intense that it feels suffocating and oppressive. This phrase is often used to emphasize the severity of the temperature, which can be so extreme that it affects people's daily routines, activities, and overall comfort. In a baking hot climate, the scorching temperatures exceed the normal range, making it difficult to engage in outdoor activities or even find relief indoors without air conditioning.
The term "baking hot" can also describe inanimate objects, such as asphalt, sand, or metal surfaces, that become blisteringly hot due to exposure to the sun's rays. Walking on baking hot pavements, for instance, can be extremely uncomfortable or even painful.
Overall, "baking hot" is an idiomatic expression used to describe temperatures that surpass the usual hotness levels, effectively conveying the sheer intensity and oppressive nature of the heat.
The phrase "baking hot" combines two words: "baking" and "hot".
The word "baking" comes from the Middle English word "baken", which originally meant "to cook by dry heat" or "to heat with hot air". This Middle English term can be traced back to the Old English word "bacan", which meant "to bake" or "to roast". Ultimately, it derives from the Proto-Germanic word "bakanan", with a similar meaning.
The word "hot" comes from the Old English word "hāt", which meant "having a high temperature" or "fully fired". It can be traced back to the Proto-Germanic word "haitaz", meaning "hot" or "burning".
Combining these two words, "baking hot" refers to extreme heat, similar to the high temperature one would experience while baking something in an oven.