in the heat of

in the heat of (something)

During a time of extreme action, emotion, or agitation. Soldiers have to train themselves not to feel fear in the heat of battle. Many nasty, incendiary remarks were made in the heat of the debate. In the heat of the moment, I completely forgot to ask my question.See also: heat, of

in the heat of

In the most intense or active stage of some activity or condition. For example, One never knows how soldiers will behave in the heat of battle, or In the heat of the moment she accepted his proposal, or In the heat of the negotiations he forgot to call his wife. [Late 1500s] See also: heat, of