The spelling of the word "the hots" can be a bit confusing due to the pronunciation of the word "hot". In IPA phonetic transcription, the word "hot" is written as /hɒt/, which has a short "o" sound. However, when we add the "s" sound at the end to create "the hots", we pronounce it as /hɒts/, with a "z" sound. This is due to the phonetic rule of voicing, where the voiceless "s" sound becomes voiced when it's between two voiced sounds, such as the "o" sound in "hot".
"The hots" is an informal colloquial expression used to describe a strong infatuation or romantic attraction towards someone or something. It refers to a feeling of intense desire or passionate interest in a particular person, object, or idea. This term commonly reflects a sense of elevated emotional and sexual attraction towards someone, often accompanied by a sense of longing or yearning.
The phrase "the hots" suggests a heightened level of interest that goes beyond mere admiration or liking. It implies an intense fervor or passion that can be difficult to control, often leading to fantasies, daydreaming, or obsessive thoughts about the object of one's desire. This expression typically conveys a strong physical and emotional attraction, which may manifest in increased heart rate, flushed face, or butterflies in the stomach when thinking or being in the presence of the desired person or thing.
The hots can be temporary infatuations or enduring attractions, often indicating a crush or strong liking towards someone. It can also imply a deep desire or lustful interest, emphasizing the physical aspect of the attraction. While the term is mainly associated with romantic or sexual infatuation, it can also be used to describe a strong enthusiasm or craving for a particular thing, like a hobby, a food item, or an activity.
Overall, "the hots" refers to an intense or burning desire, primarily of a romantic or sexual nature, towards someone or something.
The term "the hots" is an idiomatic expression that means having a strong or intense desire or attraction towards someone or something. It originated in the United States in the mid-20th century.
While there isn't a specific etymology available for the phrase itself, it is likely derived from the use of the word "hot" to describe intense or passionate feelings. The word "hot" has been used in this sense since Old English, but its usage in this particular context emerged more recently.
The phrase "the hots" may have evolved from other expressions that incorporate the word "hot" to imply intense desire, such as "hot and bothered", "hot under the collar", or "hot for someone". It is similar to other idiomatic phrases like "having a crush" or "being infatuated", which also capture the idea of strong attraction.