sore throat

American  

noun

Pathology.

1. a painful or sensitive condition of the throat exaggerated by swallowing or talking, usually caused by bacteria or viruses; laryngitis; pharyngitis; tonsillitis.

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Etymology

Origin of sore throat

First recorded in 1680–90

Example Sentences

Respiratory diphtheria often starts with fever or chills, a sore throat that can lead to breathing and swallowing difficulties, and be life-threatening.

From BBC • May 26, 2026

Early symptoms resemble those of other, more common diseases: fever, fatigue, muscle pain, headache and sore throat.

From The Wall Street Journal • May 22, 2026

Initial symptoms may include fever, headaches, muscle pain, vomiting and sore throat.

From BBC • Jan. 27, 2026

Influenza can lead to complications and fatalities, especially in people 65 years and older or under 5 with fever, cough and sore throat.

From Los Angeles Times • Jan. 7, 2026

His whisper sounded raspy, like someone getting over a sore throat.

From "Beasts of Prey" by Ayana Gray