secondhand smoke

noun

: tobacco smoke that is exhaled by smokers or is given off by burning tobacco and is inhaled by persons nearby

Examples of secondhand smoke in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

Other important steps may include staying physically active, reducing exposure to air pollution and secondhand smoke, and participating in pulmonary rehabilitation, which is a structured program of exercise, education and support designed to improve ease of breathing and overall quality of life. —Katia Hetter, CNN Money, 28 Aug. 2025

Try to avoid secondhand smoke, scented candles, cleaning products with harsh chemicals, and outdoor air pollution when possible.16 Gargle with salt water: This can soothe a sore or irritated throat and help clear mucus. —Lindsay Curtis, Health, 27 July 2025

Johnson cited experiences inhaling secondhand smoke as an asthmatic to underscore the push. —Jake Sheridan, Chicago Tribune, 22 July 2025

The legal justification is mainly based on not exposing neighbors to secondhand smoke. —Phillip Molnar, Oc Register, 7 July 2025

Word History

First Known Use

1891, in the meaning defined above

Rhymes for secondhand smoke

• artichoke
• nanticoke
• womenfolk
• awoke
• baroque
• bespoke
• colloque
• convoke
• evoke
• invoke
• keystroke
• kinfolk

Kids Definition

secondhand smoke

noun

: tobacco smoke that is exhaled by smokers or is given off by burning tobacco and is inhaled by persons nearby

Medical Definition

secondhand smoke

noun

sec·​ond·​hand smoke ˌsek-ᵊn(d)-ˌhan(d)- 

: tobacco smoke that is exhaled by a smoker or is given off by burning tobacco (as of a cigarette) and is inhaled by persons nearby

called also passive smoke