The correct spelling of the phrase "normal temperature" is /ˈnɔːməl ˈtɛmp(ə)rətʃə/. The first syllable, "nor", is pronounced with a long "o" sound. The second syllable, "mal", is pronounced with a short "a" sound. Together, they create the "or" diphthong. The stress falls on the first syllable, "nor". The word "temperature" is pronounced with the sound "er" spelled with "e-r", and the "a" vowel sound is represented by "per". Overall, this is a common phrase that is frequently used in medical settings.
Normal temperature refers to the average or typical level of bodily heat considered within the healthy range for a specific organism, particularly for humans. It is a measurement of the body's thermal stability, reflecting the balance between heat production and dissipation. For humans, normal body temperature is generally accepted to be around 98.6 degrees Fahrenheit or 37 degrees Celsius. However, this figure can slightly vary depending on factors such as age, time of day, physical activity, and individual variations.
The concept of normal temperature is fundamental in medical diagnosis and monitoring. Deviations from the normal range may indicate the presence of illness or irregularities within the body. Elevated body temperature, also known as fever, can often accompany infections or inflammation, serving as an immune response by the body to fight off pathogens. Conversely, abnormally low temperature, known as hypothermia, can occur due to exposure to cold temperatures, certain medical conditions, or underlying metabolic imbalances.
Normal temperature is usually measured using thermometers, either orally, rectally, axillary (under the armpit), or via the ear. Accurate temperature readings assist healthcare professionals in making accurate diagnoses, assessing response to treatment, and determining the severity of certain conditions. It is important to note that temperature measurements can vary slightly depending on the method used, and therefore, standard guidelines are followed to ensure consistency and accuracy in medical practice.
The temperature of the animal body in health; that of man is 98.6° F. (37° C.); that of the monkey a little higher; of the horse about 100.4° F. (38° C.); of the rabbit, 100.8° to 102° F. (38.2° to 39° C.); of the guinea-pig, 101.3° to 103.1° F. (38.5° to 39.5° C.); of the dog, 100.8° to 103.1° F. (38.2° to 39.5° C.).
A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.
The word "normal" has its origins in the Latin word "normalis", which means "made according to a carpenter's square". This term was used to describe something that adhered to a specific standard or rule. Over time, "normal" evolved to mean something that is regular, usual, or customary.
The word "temperature" comes from the Latin word "temperatura", which refers to a mixing or blending of elements. It later came to be associated specifically with the intensity of heat, as measured by a thermometer.
When these two words are combined, "normal temperature" simply refers to the regular or usual intensity of heat or coldness in a given context. It is often used to describe the typical temperature range for a particular environment or the average body temperature of humans, for example.