Coughing: meaning, definitions and examples

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coughing

[ˈkɔfɪŋ ]

Definitions

^{Context #1 | Verb}

health issue

Coughing is a reflex action that clears the airways of mucus and irritants. It can be a symptom of various conditions, ranging from allergies to infections like the common cold or flu. While usually temporary and not a cause for concern, persistent coughing may indicate a more serious health issue that requires medical attention. Coughing can also serve as a means to communicate a person's discomfort or illness.

Synonyms

choke, clear one's throat, splutter.

Examples of usage

She was coughing throughout the night.
His coughing was due to the dusty environment.
Coughing can be contagious if caused by an infection.
The child started coughing after inhaling smoke.

^{Context #2 | Noun}

health symptom

Coughing is the act of expelling air from the lungs with a sudden sharp sound. It is often classified based on its duration as acute, subacute, or chronic. Acute coughs last fewer than three weeks and are often associated with upper respiratory infections. Chronic coughs, lasting longer than eight weeks, may require medical intervention to determine the underlying cause.

Synonyms

bark, hack, whoop.

Examples of usage

The persistent cough is often a sign of an underlying condition.
He was diagnosed with a chronic cough.
Her cough is dry, without mucus production.
Coughing can disrupt sleep and daily activities.

Interesting Facts

Medical Understanding

Coughing is a reflex action that helps to clear the airways of mucus, irritants, and foreign particles.
There are different types of coughs: dry (no mucus) and productive (brings up phlegm).
Coughs can be symptoms of various illnesses, including colds, allergies, and infections.

History

In ancient times, physicians noted coughs and their association with diseases, using them to help diagnose patients.
During the 19th century, the first cough medicines were created, marking a significant advancement in treatment.

Cultural References

In many cultures, a cough is associated with bad omens or warnings, often prompting superstitions.
Coughing appears in various folk songs and stories, often representing illness or mischief.

Psychology

Coughing can be a response to anxiety or stress, as it serves as a physical release for built-up tension.
In social settings, coughing can signal discomfort, leading others to offer help or ask what's wrong.

Technology

Innovations in healthcare have led to the development of apps that can analyze cough sounds to help diagnose conditions.
Machine learning algorithms are now being designed to detect specific sounds of coughing, aiding in remote health monitoring.

Translations

Translations of the word "coughing" in other languages:

🇵🇹 tosse

🇮🇳 खांसी

🇩🇪 Husten

🇮🇩 batuk

🇺🇦 кашель

🇵🇱 kaszel

🇯🇵 咳

🇫🇷 toux

🇪🇸 tos

🇹🇷 öksürük

🇰🇷 기침

🇸🇦 سعال

🇨🇿 kašel

🇸🇰 kašeľ

🇨🇳 咳嗽

🇸🇮 kašelj

🇮🇸 hóstun

🇰🇿 жөтел

🇬🇪 ხველა

🇦🇿 öskürək

🇲🇽 tos

Word Frequency Rank

At position #13,941, this word is part of sophisticated English vocabulary. It's useful for academic or professional contexts where precise language is needed.

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13938 soles
13939 experimented
13940 pudding
13941 coughing
13942 impunity
13943 ludicrous
13944 counterfeit
...