Definition

Discomfort or pain that occurs in the ear.

Example

After swimming, she experienced otalgia and had to see a doctor.

Conversation

I've been having this annoying pain in my ear lately.

That sounds uncomfortable! Is it otalgy?

Yeah, I think it might be, especially when I swallow.

You should see a doctor; they can help with that kind of otalgy.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Otalgy is formed from "oto-" (from Greek "ous, otos", meaning ear) and "algos" (meaning pain). The word refers to pain in the ear.

Memory Tip

Think of 'oto-' relating to the ear and 'algos' meaning pain — so otalgy is the pain you feel in your ear.

Visually Confused Words