The term "heat of passion" refers to a temporary emotional state where a person experiences intense feelings, often due to anger, jealousy, or love. This heightened emotional state can lead to impulsive actions that a person might not normally consider, sometimes resulting in violent behavior or decisions made in the moment. In legal contexts, "heat of passion" can be a mitigating factor in cases of homicide. It suggests that the individual acted without premeditation, driven by overwhelming emotions, which may influence the severity of charges or sentencing.