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

Originally explored as a treatment for diabetes, GLP-1 drugs have shown benefits against heart and kidney disease, sleep apnea, and addiction. — Brendan Ruberry, semafor.com, 12 Aug. 2026

But Bernie says there are often other contributing factors in younger and middle-aged men beyond aging, like obesity, diabetes, sleep apnea, drug use and other medical conditions. — Will Stone, NPR, 10 Aug. 2026

Adherence is often low, and untreated sleep apnea can worsen hypertension, atrial fibrillation and the daytime sleepiness. — Jesse M. Pines, Forbes.com, 10 Aug. 2026

Diabetes, obesity, sleep apnea and certain heart conditions can increase the risk. — Kurt Knutsson, FOXNews.com, 7 Aug. 2026

Word History

First Known Use

1975, in the meaning defined above

Rhymes for sleep apnea

• hypercapnia

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