vital signs

plural noun

1. essential body functions, comprising pulse rate, body temperature, and respiration, used as a measure of health or physical condition.

vital signs

plural noun

1. med indications that a person is still alive. Vital signs include a heartbeat, a pulse that can be felt, breathing, and body temperature

vital signs

1. The pulse rate, temperature, respiratory rate, and usually blood pressure of an individual.

vital signs

1. The pulse rate, blood pressure, body temperature, and rate of respiration of a person. The vital signs are usually measured to obtain a quick evaluation of the person's general physical condition.

Word History and Origins

Origin of vital signs¹

First recorded in 1915–20

Example Sentences

Her vital signs pointed to possible sepsis, records show.

From Salon

Robyn is fed oxygen and nutrition through tubes in her nose and mouth, her vital signs are monitored at all times and she takes 30 doses of medication a day.

From BBC

Thurman was breathing rapidly and at risk of bleeding out, according to her vital signs.

From Salon

At that point in time, they should’ve sent in a coroner to check for Trump’s vital signs.

From Salon

And in matches of such fine margins, the vital signs are always examined for the qualities that can make champions.

From BBC