Sternutation: meaning, definitions and examples

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sternutation

 

[ ˌstɜrn.jʊˈteɪ.ʃən ]

Noun
Context #1 | Noun

medical term

Sternutation refers to the act of sneezing, a reflex action that provides a means for the body to expel irritants from the nasal cavity. This action involves the rapid expulsion of air from the lungs through the nose and mouth, often accompanied by a sound. It serves both a protective role and can be a symptom of respiratory conditions.

Synonyms

expectorate, sneeze, sniffle

Examples of usage

  • The patient experienced frequent sternutations due to allergies.
  • Sternutation can help clear the nasal passages.
  • She's been suffering from sternutation caused by pollen.
  • During flu season, many people suffer from sternutation.

Translations

Translations of the word "sternutation" in other languages:

🇵🇹 esternutação

🇮🇳 छींकना

🇩🇪 Niesen

🇮🇩 bersin

🇺🇦 чхання

🇵🇱 kichanie

🇯🇵 くしゃみ (kushami)

🇫🇷 éternuement

🇪🇸 estornudo

🇹🇷 hapşırma

🇰🇷 재채기 (jaechaegi)

🇸🇦 عطس (ʿuṭs)

🇨🇿 kýchnutí

🇸🇰 kýchanie

🇨🇳 打喷嚏 (dǎ pēntì)

🇸🇮 kihanje

🇮🇸 hósti

🇰🇿 түшкіру

🇬🇪 ჩხუბი (chkhubi)

🇦🇿 ağciyər

🇲🇽 estornudo

Word origin

The word 'sternutation' originates from the Latin word 'sternutatio', which means 'sneezing'. The root of the term can be traced back to the verb 'sternutare', which translates to 'to sneeze' and is related to the Proto-Indo-European root '*sneuh-'. Historically, the act of sneezing has long fascinated people, with various cultures attributing different meanings and superstitions to it. In ancient Rome, for example, it was often seen as a sign of good luck or a warning against danger. The formal usage of the word sternutation in medical contexts emerged in the 19th century, as the understanding of the respiratory system and its functions advanced. The study of sneezing has also played a role in understanding allergic reactions and respiratory illnesses, which has made the term increasingly relevant in modern medical discussions.