sleep apnea

noun

: apnea that recurs during sleep and is caused especially by obstruction of the airway or a disturbance in the brain's respiratory center

Examples of sleep apnea 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.
When Back Sleeping Isn’t the Move People with obstructive sleep apnea or chronic snoring should avoid it. Allison Palmer, Charlotte Observer, 9 Apr. 2026 People with obstructive sleep apnea or chronic snoring should be especially cautious, because gravity can pull the tongue and soft palate backward and block the airway. Allison Palmer, Sacbee.com, 9 Apr. 2026 People with obstructive sleep apnea or chronic snoring should be cautious. Allison Palmer, Fort Worth Star-Telegram, 9 Apr. 2026 Some applicants who are receiving benefits have listed their sleep apnea, obesity and arthritis. Tony Saavedra, Oc Register, 4 Apr. 2026 See All Example Sentences for sleep apnea

Word History

First Known Use

1975, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of sleep apnea was in 1975

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Cite this Entry

“Sleep apnea.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/sleep%20apnea. Accessed 12 Apr. 2026.

Medical Definition

sleep apnea

noun
: brief periods of recurrent cessation of breathing during sleep that is caused especially by obstruction of the airway or a disturbance in the brain's respiratory center and is associated especially with excessive daytime sleepiness

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