Meaning & Definition of word "Sneeze"

Sneeze

/sniːz/

noun:

  • 1. A sudden, involuntary expulsion of air from the nose and mouth caused by an irritation of the nasal mucous membrane.
    • Example: The loud sneeze startled everyone in the quiet room.
  • 2. The act of sneezing.
    • Example: She felt a sneeze coming on and reached for a tissue.

verb:

  • 1. To make a sudden, involuntary expulsion of air from the nose and mouth.
    • Example: He couldn't help but sneeze when the pepper was sprinkled on his food.
  • 2. To expel air from the nose and mouth in a sudden manner.
    • Example: Whenever I walk by the flowers, I tend to sneeze.

Etymology

Middle English 'sneesen', likely derived from a Middle Dutch root.

Common Phrases and Expressions

Achoo!:

An exclamation often said when someone sneezes.

Bless you!:

A common response to someone sneezing, wishing them well.

Sneeze attack:

A sudden and uncontrollable fit of sneezing.

Related Words

sneezing:

The act or occurrence of expelling air from the nose and mouth.

allergy:

A hypersensitivity to a substance which can cause sneezing.

nasal:

Relating to the nose, often associated with sneezing.

Slang Meanings of sneeze

Meaning: To let one rip

Example Sentence: When he sneezed, it was like he let one rip!

Meaning: Dust sneeze

Example Sentence: I got a dust sneeze from cleaning the house.