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.
Because of that variance, Lye tests for strep even when there isn't a sore throat. Nicole Villalpando, Austin American Statesman, 25 Feb. 2026 Adults and children older than 1 year can add honey to warm tea or water to help soothe sore throats and calm coughs. The Washington Post, San Diego Union-Tribune, 24 Feb. 2026 Propolis, what bees use to insulate the walls of their hives to protect against outside germs, is brilliant for soothing sore throats, bolstering our immune systems, and protecting against free radicals. Brianna Peters, Vogue, 23 Feb. 2026 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 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

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Sore throat.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/sore%20throat. Accessed 28 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

More from Merriam-Webster on sore throat

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
Love words? Need even more definitions?

Subscribe to America's largest dictionary and get thousands more definitions and advanced search—ad free!

More from Merriam-Webster