Cough Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
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cough
[kÉËf ]
Definitions
action of expelling
Coughing is the act of expelling air from the lungs with a sudden sharp sound. It is a reflex action that helps to clear the throat and airways of irritants, mucus, or foreign particles. Frequent coughing may be a sign of underlying health issues, such as colds, allergies, or respiratory infections. Coughing can be dry or productive, depending on whether mucus is being expelled.
Synonyms
Examples of usage
- She coughed loudly during the meeting.
- He had a persistent cough that lasted for weeks.
- The cold air made him cough.
- You should cover your mouth when you cough to prevent spreading germs.
sound made
A cough is a sudden and forceful release of air from the lungs that can occur involuntarily or voluntarily. It serves as a natural defense mechanism to ensure the airways are clear. While coughing can be a symptom of illness, it can also be a normal response to environmental irritants. Coughs can vary in characteristics, being either dry or productive based on the presence of mucus.
Synonyms
Examples of usage
- His cough was irritating everyone's concentration.
- She had a dry cough that wouldn't go away.
- The doctor noted the cough as a significant symptom.
- He covered his mouth to suppress a cough.
Translations
To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.
Origin of 'cough'
The word 'cough' originates from the Middle English 'coffen', which in turn derives from the Old English 'cohian'. This Old English term was related to similar words in other Germanic languages, including the Old High German 'kuocha' and the Dutch 'hoesten'. The root of the word is thought to stem from an imitative origin, reflecting the sound produced during the act. Over time, the term evolved in pronunciation and spelling but maintained its fundamental meaning related to the act of expelling air from the lungs. Medical terminology related to cough has expanded with advancements in the understanding of respiratory health, integrating terms from Latin and Greek, such as 'tussis', which is used in more formal contexts in medicine.