How is thermal comfort defined?

Thermal comfort is best defined as a state of mind that expresses satisfaction with the surrounding environment. This concept encompasses an individual's perception of temperature, humidity, airflow, and other environmental factors, leading to a feeling of comfort or discomfort. It varies between individuals based on personal preferences and physiological responses to environmental conditions.

Focusing on this definition emphasizes that thermal comfort is not just about specific measurements or conditions; rather, it is a subjective experience. People can feel comfortable or uncomfortable at the same temperature based on other factors, such as clothing, activity levels, and personal preferences.

While options like the equilibrium between temperature and humidity relate to environmental conditions that can influence comfort, they do not capture the subjective nature of thermal comfort itself, which is fundamentally about a person's mental satisfaction. Moreover, while the absence of cold drafts is a factor that can contribute to comfort, it does not encompass the broader range of conditions that can lead to satisfaction or dissatisfaction with one's thermal environment.