whooping cough

noun

whoop·​ing cough ˈhü-piŋ- 

ˈhu̇-

: an infectious respiratory disease especially of children caused by a bacterium (Bordetella pertussis) and marked by a convulsive spasmodic cough sometimes followed by a crowing intake of breath

called also pertussis

Examples of whooping cough in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

The agency recommends whooping cough vaccination for all babies and children, preteens and pregnant women. —Gabe Hauari, USA TODAY, 5 June 2024

Most whooping cough symptoms can be managed at home, according to the CDC. —Mary Kekatos, ABC News, 31 May 2024

There are no blood tests specific to whooping cough. —Kirstyn Hill, Pharmd, Mph, Health, 7 July 2024

What whooping cough sounds like A loud, rapid whoop Symptoms of whooping cough In most cases of whooping cough (pertussis), the baby has no cold symptoms or fever. —Evan Forster, Parents, 17 June 2024

Word History

First Known Use

1665, in the meaning defined above

Kids Definition

whooping cough

noun

: a disease especially of children that is caused by a bacterium and is marked by severe attacks of coughing often followed by a high-pitched gasping intake of breath

called also pertussis

Medical Definition

whooping cough

noun

: an infectious disease especially of children caused by a bacterium of the genus Bordetella (B. pertussis) and marked by a convulsive spasmodic cough sometimes followed by a crowing intake of breath

called also pertussis