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Sneezed Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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sneezed

[sniːzd ]

Definition

Context #1 | Verb

past action

Sneezed is the past tense of the verb 'sneeze', which means to expel air forcefully through the nose and mouth due to irritation in the nasal passages. This common reflex is often triggered by allergies, colds, or other irritants.

Synonyms

expectorate, expel.

Examples of usage

  • He sneezed loudly during the meeting.
  • She sneezed several times after smelling the flowers.
  • I sneezed and everyone looked at me.
  • They sneezed in unison after the dust storm.

Translations

To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.

Interesting Facts

Health

  • Sneezing is a reflex that helps clear irritants from the nasal cavity, keeping our airways clean.
  • Certain sneezing triggers include allergies, colds, and strong smells; this reaction protects our respiratory system.
  • The speed of a sneeze can reach up to 100 miles per hour, which is why it can spread germs quickly.

Cultural Significance

  • In some cultures, sneezing can be seen as a sign that someone is thinking about you or that something good is about to happen.
  • Some traditions hold that a sneeze might mean a spirit is trying to communicate or warn you of something.

Pop Culture

  • Sneezing has been humorously featured in cartoons and films, often exaggerated to create comedic situations.
  • In the hit movie 'Monsters, Inc.', character Mike Wazowski sneezes with surprising force, leading to funny consequences.

Science

  • The scientific term for sneezing is 'sternutation', derived from the Latin word 'sternutare'.
  • Research shows that most people cannot sneeze with their eyes open; this is believed to be a protective reflex.

Origin of 'sneezed'

Main points about word origin

  • The word 'sneeze' comes from the Middle English term 'snesen', which is linked to the Old English 'fneosan', meaning to blow the nose.
  • The shift in spelling to 'sneeze' became standard around the 17th century, influenced by the pronunciation habits of English speakers.

The word 'sneeze' is derived from the Middle English term 'sneesen', which can be traced back to the Old English 'fneosan', meaning 'to sneeze' or 'to blow the nose'. Its roots can also be linked to similar words in other Germanic languages that denote the act of sneezing. The usage of the term has evolved over time, but the action it describes has been recognized across cultures for centuries. Sneezing has not only been a common physiological response but also a subject of superstition and folklore, with many cultures having various beliefs about the meaning of a sneeze. In medical contexts, the action is understood as a defense mechanism of the respiratory system, helping to clear the nasal passages of irritants. The term has transitioned from a simple description of a bodily function to encapsulate cultural significance, including responses to sneezes that can range from blessings to humorous remarks.

Word Frequency Rank

At rank #29,770, this word represents specialized academic or technical vocabulary. It's less frequently encountered but may be valuable in specific contexts.