The "dog days of summer" refers to the hot, sultry period that falls roughly from early July to mid-August. But there are plenty of synonyms for the phrase that capture the oppressive heat and humidity of this time of year. Some people call it the "canicule," a French term that translates to "dog days" or the "hundstage," in German. Others use the term "sultry summer" to describe this period, while some describe it as "steamy" or "sticky." No matter what you call it, one thing is clear: the dog days of summer can be a trying time, but they're also a reminder to savor the sunshine and warmth while it lasts.