vitals

[ vahyt-lz ]

plural noun

1. those bodily organs that are essential to life, as the brain, heart, liver, lungs, and stomach.
2. the essential parts of something:

   the vitals of a democracy.

Word History and Origins

Origin of vitals¹

1600–10; translation of Latin vītālia; vital

Example Sentences

These patients should be watched until their vitals improve.

From Salon

“There was this chance encounter with some of the firemen out there when we were coming off trail to find a campsite. They checked my vitals and told us about heatstroke, heat exhaustion and how dangerous it was.”

From Los Angeles Times

The U.S. added 254,000 jobs in September, demonstrating strong economic vitals just 31 days before the election.

From Salon

For Yoon and her husband, there were delicious meals, massages, daily vitals checks, socializing opportunities with other new parents, and spa sessions.

From Slate

Its legislative committee chairman called public housing a form of “socialism that is gnawing at the vitals of America from within.”

From Los Angeles Times

Related Words

• essential
• fundamental
• obligation
• precondition
• prerequisite
• requirement
• urgency