hay fever

noun

: an acute allergic reaction to pollen that is usually seasonal and is marked by sneezing, nasal discharge and congestion, and itching and watering of the eyes

called also pollinosis

Examples of hay fever in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

The Asthma and Allergy Foundation of America states that mold spores can cause hay fever-like symptoms in individuals who experience an allergic reaction to the present fungus3. —Ashlyn Needham, Southern Living, 31 Mar. 2026

What are best ways to prevent hay fever symptoms? —Hali Smith, Idaho Statesman, 26 Mar. 2026

Your Allergy Symptoms May Improve Curcumin can help ease allergy symptoms in conditions such as asthma, dermatitis, and seasonal allergies (hay fever). —Lauren O'Connor, Health, 12 Mar. 2026

Regularly taking antihistamines during hay fever season may help to reduce symptoms and clear any congestion. —Adam Taylor, CNN Money, 8 Mar. 2026

Word History

First Known Use

1829, in the meaning defined above

Rhymes for hay fever

• achiever
• believer
• deceiver
• perceiver
• receiver
• reliever
• retriever
• transceiver
• cleaver
• leaver
• weaver
• unbeliever

Kids Definition

hay fever

noun

: an allergy to pollen that is usually marked by sneezing, a runny or stuffed nose, and itchy and watering eyes

Medical Definition

hay fever

noun

ˈhā-ˌfē-vər 

: an acute allergic reaction to pollen that is usually seasonal and is marked by sneezing, nasal discharge and congestion, and itching and watering of the eyes

called also pollinosis