cough
verb (used without object)
to expel air from the lungs suddenly with a harsh noise, often involuntarily.
is coughing
-
present progressiveof cough (3rd person singular).present progressive
Used to describe an ongoing action or state that is currently taking place in the immediate present.
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.
"Anyone who is coughing or has a gastrointestinal infection belongs in bed – not in an overcrowded surgery," it said in a statement.
From BBC ● Jul. 3, 2026
"He is coughing ... and from the lung X-rays, heart and lung specialists are still worried," Soponrat Singhajaru, a senior doctor at Bangkok's police hospital, told reporters, declining to elaborate because of patient confidentiality.
From Reuters ● Aug. 25, 2023
But swearing off masks for good — even when sitting on a plane next to someone who is coughing or sneezing — would unnecessarily put people at higher risk for illness.
From Los Angeles Times ● Aug. 9, 2023
McNeil says employers can ask a worker to go home if he or she is coughing, sneezing or appears sick — even if it means the employee will lose pay.
From Seattle Times ● Dec. 7, 2022
And I think someone is coughing beneath the floorboards.
From "The Light in Hidden Places" by Sharon Cameron
