inhaler

[in-hey-ler]

noun

1. an apparatus or device used in inhaling medicinal vapors, anesthetics, etc.

2. a respirator.

3. a person who inhales.

inhaler

/ ɪnˈheɪlə /

noun

1. a device for breathing in therapeutic vapours through the nose or mouth, esp one for relieving nasal congestion or asthma

2. a person who inhales

Word History and Origins

Origin of inhaler¹

First recorded in 1770–80; inhale + -er ¹

Example Sentences

Dr Khare said such coughs respond best to bronchodilators - medicines that open up the airways - preferably through inhalers or nebulisers, though many doctors still rely on syrups that offer only limited relief.

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She was also a severe asthmatic, always followed by a "frightened minion carrying her asthma inhaler, as though it were a crown, or a sceptre of some sort".

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“I don’t know if he has enough medication. He carries an inhaler, but I don’t know if it’s enough, because he’s been there a week.”

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For example, asthma inhalers activate receptors, which relax the airways to help facilitate breathing.

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More and more children at Rebecca Stewart's east London playgroup are using asthma inhalers, she says.

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