cough
verb (used without object)
to expel air from the lungs suddenly with a harsh noise, often involuntarily.
coughing
-
present participleof cough.present participle
A verb form that is used in progressive verb constructions and may also function as a modifier or a gerund.
Example Sentences
Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.
“Or whatever the digital version of coughing up a hairball is.”
From Slate ● Oct. 14, 2026
Larger nodules can cause shortness of breath, chest pain and persistent coughing -- sometimes with blood.
From Barron's ● Oct. 12, 2026
I was born with infantile asthma, resulting in coughing fits.
From The Wall Street Journal ● Oct. 6, 2026
The review also found an association with wheezing, coughing, poor oral and dental health, poor sleep, mental health problems and eye symptoms.
From BBC ● Sep. 30, 2026
“Ain’t her fault,” Pa said, coughing and sniffling.
From "Willodeen" by Katherine Applegate
