tinnitus

American  

[ti-nahy-tuhs, tin-i-] / tɪˈnaɪ təs, ˈtɪn ɪ- /

noun

Pathology.

1. a ringing or similar sensation of sound in the ears.

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tinnitus British  

/ ˈtɪnɪtəs, tɪˈnaɪtəs /

noun

1. pathol a ringing, hissing, or booming sensation in one or both ears, caused by infection of the middle or inner ear, a side effect of certain drugs, etc

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tinnitus Scientific  

/ tĭn′ĭ-təs,tĭ-nī′- /

1. A buzzing, ringing, or whistling sound in one or both ears occurring without an external stimulus. Its causes include ear infection or blockage, certain drugs, head injury, and neurologic disease.

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Etymology

Origin of tinnitus

First recorded in 1685–95; from Latin tinnītus “a tinkling,” noun use of past participle of tinnīre “to tinkle,” of imitative origin

Example Sentences

Moon incurred tinnitus following an injury to his eardrum in recent years, which impacted his ability to work.

From Los Angeles Times • Jan. 12, 2026

Shatner addressed his health after previously discussing his tinnitus.

From Los Angeles Times • Sep. 25, 2025

Ms Hill, from Hotwells, Bristol, first developed symptoms as a teenager, which included migraines, bouts of nausea, vertigo, tinnitus and brain fog, meaning she was unable to hold down a job.

From BBC • Dec. 4, 2024

White noise has been used to treat ringing or buzzing in the ear, called tinnitus.

From Seattle Times • Jun. 4, 2024

Pain, deafness, tinnitus, and giddiness may be produced, and such reflex symptoms as coughing and vomiting have resulted.

From Manual of Surgery Volume Second: Extremities—Head—Neck. Sixth Edition. by Miles, Alexander