Endothermic

Definition

Refers to an organism that generates heat internally to maintain a stable body temperature, often independent of the ambient temperature.

Etymology

From Greek 'endo-', meaning 'within', and 'therme', meaning 'heat'.

Example

Endothermic insects like the bumblebee can generate enough heat to fly even in cooler temperatures by shivering their flight muscles.

Synonyms

• Warm-blooded

Related Terms

• Ectothermic
• Thermoregulation
• Metabolism

Usage Notes

Although typically used to describe mammals and birds, the term can also apply to certain insects that exhibit a degree of endothermic heat production.