asthma

noun

asth·​ma ˈaz-mə 

 British  ˈas-

: a chronic lung disorder that is marked by recurring episodes of airway obstruction (as from bronchospasm) manifested by labored breathing accompanied especially by wheezing and coughing and by a sense of constriction in the chest, and that is triggered by hyperreactivity to various stimuli (such as allergens or rapid change in air temperature)

asthmatic

az-ˈma-tik 

 British  as-

adjective or noun

asthmatically

az-ˈma-ti-k(ə-)lē 

 British  as-

adverb

Examples of asthma in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

Other common issues in Jackson County rentals include mold and mildew, which can lead to asthma and respiratory problems, and peeling or chipping paint, which can cause harmful lead exposure. —Natalie Wallington, Kansas City Star, 7 May 2024

For some, dry powder isn't a good option because not all asthma or COPD sufferers can get their medications in this form. —Martha Bebinger, NPR, 6 May 2024

Word History

Etymology

Middle English asma, borrowed from Medieval Latin asma, asthma, borrowed from Greek ásthma "panting, shortness of breath, asthma (as a medical condition)," of uncertain origin

First Known Use

14th century, in the meaning defined above

Phrases Containing asthma

• anti-asthma
• bronchial asthma

Kids Definition

asthma

noun

asth·​ma ˈaz-mə 

: a condition that is marked by difficulty in breathing with wheezing, a feeling of tightness in the chest, and coughing

asthmatic

az-ˈmat-ik 

adjective or noun

asthmatically

-ˈmat-i-k(ə-)lē 

adverb

Medical Definition

asthma

noun

asth·​ma ˈaz-mə 

: a chronic lung disorder that is marked by recurring episodes of airway obstruction (as from bronchospasm) manifested by labored breathing accompanied especially by wheezing and coughing and by a sense of constriction in the chest, and that is triggered by hyperreactivity to various stimuli (as allergens or rapid change in air temperature)