canicule (noun)

1. In the comic strip, the characters try to find ways to beat the heat during the canicule.

2. According to Greek mythology, the canicule is caused by Sirius, the Dog Star.

3. In the futuristic world of this science fiction novel, the canicule has become a permanent state due to climate change.

4. Why did the ice cream hide during the canicule? Because it didn't want to melt under the scorching sun!