Migraine
/ˈmaɪɡreɪn/
Meaning & Definition
noun
A severe, recurring headache often accompanied by nausea and sensitivity to light and sound.
After battling with a migraine for several hours, she finally found relief with medication.
A type of vascular headache characterized by intense, debilitating pain.
He has to plan his work around his migraines, as they can strike without warning.
A headache of varying intensity, often accompanied by nausea, vomiting, and sensitivity to light and sound.
The flashing lights at the concert triggered her migraine.
Etymology
From Middle French 'migrainne', from Latin 'migranea', from Greek 'hemikrania' meaning 'half the head'.
Common Phrases and Expressions
migraine attack
An episode of severe headache associated with migraine.
migraine sufferer
A person who frequently experiences migraine headaches.
chronic migraine
A type of migraine that occurs 15 or more days a month.
Related Words
aura
A perceptual disturbance experienced by some migraine sufferers before the onset of the headache.
headache
Pain in the head, which may vary in intensity and duration.
cephalalgia
Medical term for headache.
Slang Meanings
A killer headache
I’ve got a killer headache and can’t function.
Head pounder
I’m dealing with a major head pounder right now.