tinnitus

noun

tin·​ni·​tus ˈti-nə-təs  tə-ˈnī-təs 

: a sensation of noise (such as a ringing or roaring) that is typically caused by a bodily condition (such as a disturbance of the auditory nerve or wax in the ear) and usually is of the subjective form which can only be heard by the one affected

Examples of tinnitus in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

The 1970s Chevrolet Light Utility Vehicle itself could register a noise level of 86 decibels, above OSHA’s 85 dBA safety level, with extended exposure potentially leading to high blood pressure, tinnitus, cardiovascular disease and hearing loss. — Andrew J. Campa, Los Angeles Times, 10 Aug. 2026

Then tinnitus and whooshing sounds started in my ears, more and more often. — Samantha Agate, Fort Worth Star-Telegram, 3 Aug. 2026

Shawn now suffers from bilateral sciatica, traumatic brain injury, PTSD, tinnitus and low-level hearing loss. — Doug Ross, Chicago Tribune, 27 June 2026

Several of the ill people, who also include Canadian diplomats, reported vertigo, tinnitus, headaches, cognitive impairmen, and other issues after feeling intense pressure or hearing strange sounds coming from one direction in incidents that happened in several countries. — Nora Gámez Torres, Miami Herald, 24 June 2026

Word History

Etymology

Latin, ringing, tinnitus, from tinnire to ring, of imitative origin

First Known Use

1843, in the meaning defined above

Medical Definition

tinnitus

noun

tin·​ni·​tus ˈtin-ət-əs  ti-ˈnīt-əs 

: a sensation of noise (as a ringing or roaring) that is typically caused by a bodily condition (as a disturbance of the auditory nerve or wax in the ear) and usually is of the subjective form which can only be heard by the one affected