pertussis

American  

[per-tuhs-is] / pərˈtʌs ɪs /

noun

Pathology.

1. whooping cough.

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pertussis British  

/ pəˈtʌsɪs /

noun

1. the technical name for whooping cough

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pertussis Scientific  

/ pər-tŭs′ĭs /

1. See whooping cough

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Other Word Forms

• pertussal
  adjective

Etymology

Origin of pertussis

1790–1800; < New Latin, equivalent to Latin per- per- + tussis a cough

Explanation

Pertussis is an illness that causes severe coughing, which can last for weeks or even months. Luckily, there is a vaccine for babies that protects them from getting pertussis. Pertussis is more commonly known as whooping cough for the distinctive, gasping "whoop" sound made during a coughing fit. Pertussis is highly contagious and especially dangerous for very young children and babies, who can stop breathing. The vaccine is very effective at preventing pertussis, although booster shots need to be given over time. Pertussis comes from per-, "thoroughly, and tussis, "cough."

Example Sentences

The Diphtheria, Tetanus, and Pertussis vaccine can prevent infections and reduce the likelihood of severe disease.

From Los Angeles Times • Apr. 30, 2026

Pertussis rates began climbing in the 2000s as evidence revealed that protection from an updated pertussis vaccine given during early childhood wore off sooner than expected.

From Scientific American • Sep. 25, 2023

Pertussis, or whooping cough, is a highly contagious disease caused by the bacteria Bordetella pertussis.

From Slate • Sep. 16, 2015

Pertussis causes severe, violent, prolonged coughing fits and can cause babies to stop breathing.

From Washington Times • Mar. 14, 2015

Pertussis depends on a specific poison or contagion; this is universally admitted. 2d.

From A System of Practical Medicine by American Authors, Vol. I Volume 1: Pathology and General Diseases by Various