Bronchitis

/brɒŋˈkaɪtɪs/

Meaning & Definition

noun
Inflammation of the bronchial tubes, typically resulting in cough, mucus production, and difficulty breathing.
After weeks of coughing and wheezing, the doctor diagnosed her with bronchitis.
A respiratory condition that may be acute or chronic, characterized by inflammation of the air passages.
Chronic bronchitis is often associated with long-term smoking and can be debilitating.
An infection that causes the lining of the bronchial tubes to become inflamed.
He developed bronchitis shortly after recovering from the flu.
A condition that can lead to various respiratory issues if left untreated.
The child's bronchitis required a course of antibiotics to prevent further complications.

Etymology

From 'bronchus' (a part of the respiratory system) + '-itis' (a suffix used in medical terminology to denote inflammation).

Common Phrases and Expressions

chronic bronchitis
A long-term condition involving persistent cough and mucus production.
acute bronchitis
A short-term inflammation of the bronchial tubes, typically following a viral infection.
smoker's bronchitis
Chronic bronchitis often seen in smokers due to continuous irritation.

Related Words

bronchial tubes
The major air passages of the lungs that diverge from the windpipe.
inflammation
A localized physical condition characterized by redness, swelling, and pain.
cough
A sudden, forceful hacking sound to release air and clear an obstruction.

Slang Meanings

Bronch
After my cold turned into bronch, I had to take some time off work.
The bronch
He's been struggling with the bronch for weeks, especially at night.