1. a sudden sharp sound made when forcing air from the lungs through the throat
2. an illness that causes frequent coughing

1. to force air from the lungs through the throat with a sudden sharp sound

Examples

• She began to cough after inhaling the dust.
• Please cover your mouth when you cough.
• His loud cough interrupted the meeting.
• The medicine helped suppress her cough.
• He has had a persistent cough for weeks.
• The child’s cough kept everyone awake.
• Try to cough up the phlegm.