The body temperature measured by a thermometer in the axilla with the arm held close to the body for a period of 10 min.
The temperature in the armpit.
The temperature obtained by placing a thermometer in the apex of the axilla with the arm pressed closely to the side of the body for 5 min. The temperature obtained by this method is usually 0.5° to 1.0°F (0.28° to 0.56°C) lower than oral.