sore throat

noun

: pain in the throat due to inflammation of the fauces and pharynx

Examples of sore throat 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.
In humans, bird flu can cause pink eye, fever, coughing, sore throat, runny nose, muscle aches, headaches and fatigue. Joe Brandt, CBS News, 18 Feb. 2026 The medley for winter-weary Americans has included everything from aching backs from shoveling to sore throats to frozen noses. Voice Of The People, New York Daily News, 7 Feb. 2026 Hot water may relieve symptoms of a cold, such as a sore throat and congestion. Jillian Kubala, Health, 5 Feb. 2026 Flu symptoms can include fever, chills, headache, fatigue, cough, sore throat and runny nose. Melissa Rudy, FOXNews.com, 1 Feb. 2026 See All Example Sentences for sore throat

Word History

First Known Use

1629, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of sore throat was in 1629

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Cite this Entry

“Sore throat.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/sore%20throat. Accessed 21 Feb. 2026.

Kids Definition

sore throat

noun
: a throat that is painful because of inflammation

Medical Definition

sore throat

noun
: painful throat due to inflammation of the fauces and pharynx

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