Snore Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
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snore
[snɔːr ]
Definition
sleep sound
To snore means to breathe during sleep with a hoarse or harsh sound, often caused by vibrations of the soft palate. It can occur when the airflow through the mouth and nose is partially obstructed. Snoring can range from a soft sound to a loud noise that might disturb others. While it is often considered a benign condition, in some cases, it can be a symptom of sleep apnea, which is a more serious health issue.
Synonyms
breath heavily, grumble, snort, wheeze.
Examples of usage
- He tends to snore loudly when he's really tired.
- I could hear my father snoring from the other room.
- If you snore, you might want to sleep on your side.
- She was embarrassed because she snored during the meeting.
Translations
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Interesting Facts
Health
- Frequent snoring can be a sign of sleep apnea, a condition where breathing stops and starts during sleep.
- Overweight individuals are more likely to snore due to extra fat around their necks narrowing the airway.
- Humans aren't the only ones who snore; many animals, like dogs and cats, can snore too!
Cultural References
- In cartoons and movies, snoring is often exaggerated to make characters seem silly or very deep in sleep.
- Some cultures believe that if someone snores, it means they are having a lively dream.
Science
- The sound of snoring occurs when air flow is obstructed in the throat, causing the tissues to vibrate.
- Factors like sleep position, nasal congestion, and alcohol consumption can influence how loudly someone snores.
Pop Culture
- Famous comedians often use snoring as a punchline in jokes about being exhausted or overworked.
- The phrase 'sleeping like a baby' can sometimes ironically reference someone who snores loudly, challenging the saying.
Origin of 'snore'
Main points about word origin
- The word comes from the Old English 'snoran', which means to breathe loudly while sleeping.
- In Middle English, it appeared as 'snoren', showing how the word has evolved but kept its noisy essence.
The term 'snore' is believed to have originated from the Old English word 'snoran', which means to snore or to breathe heavily while sleeping. This word can be traced back to similar terms in other Germanic languages, indicating a shared linguistic heritage. For instance, in Old High German, the term 'snozera' has a similar meaning, suggesting that the concept of snoring has been recognized in various cultures for centuries. The phenomenon of snoring itself has likely existed as long as humans have slept, evolving into a common concern in relationships and health discussions, leading to increased awareness and various remedies in modern times.