bruxism

noun

brux·​ism ˈbrək-ˌsi-zəm 

: the habit of unconsciously gritting or grinding the teeth especially in situations of stress or during sleep

Examples of bruxism in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

Teeth Grinding Nighttime teeth grinding (bruxism) may be a sign of sleep apnea and affects up to 10% of people. — Brandon Peters, Verywell Health, 29 Oct. 2025

One of the main reasons behind bruxism is stress and anxiety, says Kaiser. — Caroline C. Boyle, USA Today, 1 June 2025

These mental health conditions can lead to bruxism (teeth grinding), which can affect the tongue. — Mark Gurarie, Health, 16 Mar. 2025

Word History

Etymology

irregular from Greek brychein to gnash the teeth + English -ism

First Known Use

1932, in the meaning defined above

Medical Definition

bruxism

noun

brux·​ism ˈbrək-ˌsiz-əm 

: the habit of unconsciously gritting or grinding the teeth especially in situations of stress or during sleep

brux

ˈbrəks 

intransitive verb

bruxer noun