black lung

noun

: pneumoconiosis caused by habitual inhalation of coal dust

Examples of black lung in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
The division is responsible for screening and reviewing medical exams to determine whether there is evidence that coal miners have developed a respiratory ailment, commonly known as black lung disease. Arkansas Online, 31 May 2025 That same day, the Trump administration paused implementation of a rule that would help protect coal miners from an aggressive form of black lung disease. Taylor Sisk, CNN Money, 26 May 2025 Representative Riley Moore, Republican of West Virginia, expressed relief that Mr. Kennedy had reversed the firings of more than 100 employees with the National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health, which helps protect coal miners from black lung disease. Sheryl Gay Stolberg, New York Times, 14 May 2025 The monitors are needed to reduce the risk of black lung disease. Alexander Tin may 13, CBS News, 13 May 2025 See All Example Sentences for black lung

Word History

First Known Use

1837, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of black lung was in 1837

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Cite this Entry

“Black lung.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/black%20lung. Accessed 5 Jun. 2025.

Kids Definition

black lung

noun
: a disease of the lungs caused by the repeated breathing in of coal dust over a long time

called also black lung disease

Medical Definition

black lung

noun
: pneumoconiosis caused by habitual inhalation of coal dust

called also black lung disease

compare silicosis

More from Merriam-Webster on black lung

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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