The correct spelling of the phrase "running temperature" is /ˈrʌnɪŋ ˌtɛmp(ə)rətjʊə/. In this phonetic transcription, the stressed syllable is "tempera" and the unstressed syllable is "ture". The "u" sound in "temperature" is pronounced as schwa, which also occurs in the second syllable of "temperature". The "r" sounds in both words are pronounced with the tip of the tongue flicking against the roof of the mouth. "Running temperature" refers to having an abnormally high body temperature, usually a symptom of an illness or infection.
Running temperature refers to an increase in body temperature, typically resulting from physical exertion or illness. It is commonly used to describe an elevated body temperature during physical activities, such as exercise or sports. When an individual engages in vigorous physical exertion, their body generates heat due to increased metabolic activity. This increased heat production causes the body's core temperature to rise, leading to a running temperature or a temporary increase in body temperature.
In a medical context, running temperature can also refer to a fever, which is characterized by an abnormally high body temperature resulting from an illness or infection. When the body is invaded by pathogens, the immune system responds by releasing chemical substances that cause the body's temperature to rise, aiming to combat the infection. This rise in body temperature is commonly referred to as having a running temperature or running a fever.
It is important to note that running temperature may vary from person to person and can be influenced by factors such as age, physical condition, and environmental conditions. Monitoring body temperature is essential as it helps individuals and medical professionals assess overall health and detect potential underlying issues or infections. Fever-reducing measures, such as rest, hydration, and appropriate medical interventions, may be necessary if a running temperature persists or is accompanied by other symptoms.
The phrase "running temperature" is not a commonly used term. However, if you are referring to the expression "running a temperature", it has a medical etymology.
The word "running" here is used in the sense of "continuously or persistently occurring". "Temperature" refers to the elevated body temperature that occurs during fever as a symptom of an illness or infection.
The term "temperature" in this context can be traced back to the Latin word "temperatura", which means "a mixing in due proportion; adjustment, moderation, tempering". It evolved in Old French as "temperáture" and later entered Middle English.
The concept of fever and its correlation to an increase in body temperature has been known for centuries. Ancient Greek and Roman physicians like Hippocrates and Galen observed fever as a symptom of illness.