Definition

A rough, rattling noise made in the chest, often resembling snoring, which occurs when air moves through blocked airways.

Example

The doctor noted a rhonchus during the examination of the patient's lungs.

Conversation

I heard a strange sound coming from your chest, is everything okay?

Yeah, it's just a little rhonchus from my cold.

Oh, that sounds uncomfortable!

It is, but the doctor said it should clear up soon.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Rhonchus → It is derived from the Greek word "rhonchos" (meaning a snore or a wheezing sound). The term refers to a specific type of abnormal lung sound that resembles a snore, often heard during breathing.

Memory Tip

Imagine the sound of a snore, which is what 'rhonchus' describes — a wheezing or rattling sound in the lungs.

Visually Confused Words