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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.


Etymology

Origin of sore throat

First recorded in 1680–90

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.

"Even a sore throat can lead to something a lot more drastic," her mum said.

From BBC • May 22, 2026

My sore throat was gone, but speaking for more than 10 seconds made me lightheaded, as if I were trying to blow up a balloon simply by talking.

From Slate • Apr. 18, 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

That data measures illnesses that include a fever and a cough or sore throat, which should capture the flu but may also include other pathogens.

From The Wall Street Journal • Dec. 30, 2025

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

From "Beasts of Prey" by Ayana Gray

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