Select the most appropriate meaning of the given idiom.

Dead heat

Close contest that ends in a tie

The most appropriate meaning of the given idiom "dead heat" is >close contest that ends in a tie.<

It is used to describe a situation in which two or more competitors are equally matched and neither one can be declared the winner. The idiom is often used in sports, but it can also be used in other contexts, such as elections or business competitions.

The other options are not correct.

• A deadly blast of hot air: This is not the same as a close contest that ends in a tie.
• A strong heat wave: This is not the same as a close contest that ends in a tie.
• Strong opposition to one's ideas: This is not the same as a close contest that ends in a tie.