Gargling: meaning, definitions and examples
๐ฃ๏ธ
gargling
[ หษกษหrษกlษชล ]
oral hygiene
Gargling refers to the act of holding liquid in the mouth, tilting the head back, and making a sound, which usually involves bubbling the liquid around the throat. This practice is often done to soothe a sore throat, freshen breath, or cleanse the mouth. Gargling is a common recommendation in many cultures when dealing with throat infections or irritations, often with salt water or medicated solutions. It can also be used in various, informal contexts for humorous purposes.
Synonyms
Examples of usage
- She started gargling with warm salt water to soothe her sore throat.
- He was gargling mouthwash after brushing his teeth.
- The doctor suggested gargling with antiseptic to prevent infections.
Etymology
The word 'gargling' originates from the Latin term 'gurgitare', which means 'to bubble, to whirl'. This Latin root is derived from the earlier Latin word 'gurgulium', meaning 'throat' or 'gullet'. The first recorded use of 'gargle' in English dates back to the late 16th century, and it was likely influenced by the phonetic qualities of the action itself. The act of gargling has been practiced for centuries, across various cultures, as a method for promoting oral health and soothing throat discomfort. Over time, the term evolved into 'gargling', emphasizing the action of making gurgling sounds while rinsing or clearing the throat.