asthma — a respiratory condition marked by attacks of spasm in the bronchi of the lungs, causing difficulty in breathing
Part of speech: NOUN
Definition: a respiratory condition marked by attacks of spasm in the bronchi of the lungs, causing difficulty in breathing
Pronunciation (IPA): /ˈæzmə/
Example Sentences
- My asthma gets so bad during finals week that even my inhaler needs an inhaler.
- Exercise-induced asthma is common among athletes.
- She always carries her asthma medication when traveling.
asthma
NOUN[/ˈæzmə/]
a respiratory condition marked by attacks of spasm in the bronchi of the lungs, causing difficulty in breathing

During recess, the boy reaches for his inhaler as an asthma attack tightens his chest.
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🎤Pronunciation
🌳Etymology
Origin
The word originates from Ancient Greek 'asthma,' derived from the verb meaning 'to pant' or 'to breathe hard.' Greek physicians coined this term upon observing patients with labored, wheezing respiration, likely imitating the characteristic sound of difficult breathing.
Breakdown
From Greek 'asthma' (panting, labored breathing), likely onomatopoetic in origin, reflecting the characteristic gasping sounds of the respiratory condition.
🎵Rhyme
🔗Collocations
📝Examples
“My asthma gets so bad during finals week that even my inhaler needs an inhaler.”
“Exercise-induced asthma is common among athletes.”
“She always carries her asthma medication when traveling.”
“The dusty attic triggered his asthma immediately.”
📚Related Words
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