exothermic

or ex·o·ther·mal

[ ek-soh-thur-mik ]

adjective

, Chemistry.

1. noting or pertaining to a chemical change that is accompanied by a liberation of heat ( endothermic ).

exothermic

/ ˌɛksəʊˈθɜːmɪk /

adjective

1. (of a chemical reaction or compound) occurring or formed with the evolution of heat Compare endothermic exoergic

exothermic

/ ĕk′sō-thûr′mĭk /

1. Relating to a chemical reaction that releases heat.
2. Compare endothermic

Derived Forms

• ˌexoˈthermically, adverb

Other Words From

• exo·thermi·cal·ly exo·thermal·ly adverb
• ex·o·ther·mic·i·ty [ek-soh-ther-, mis, -i-tee], noun

Word History and Origins

Origin of exothermic¹

First recorded in 1880–85; exo- + thermic

Example Sentences

The reaction is "exothermic," meaning it produces heat as well as steam.

From National Geographic Kids

The reaction is "exothermic," meaning it produces heat as well as steam.

From National Geographic Kids

The reaction is "exothermic," meaning it produces heat as well as steam.

From National Geographic Kids

The reaction is "exothermic," meaning it produces heat as well as steam.

From National Geographic Kids

The reaction is "exothermic," meaning it produces heat as well as steam.

From National Geographic Kids