sneeze
Elementary (A2)
IPA: /sniːz/
KK: /sniz/
intransitive verb
Definition
To force air out of the nose and mouth suddenly and loudly, usually because of irritation in the nose.
Example
When the pollen count is high, I tend to sneeze a lot.
Tense Forms
Past: sneezed
Past Participle: sneezed
Conversation
I think I'm catching a cold; I just had to sneeze three times in a row.
Oh no, that's never fun! Do you have any other symptoms?
Yeah, my nose is a bit stuffy, too.
You should drink some hot tea; it helps when I feel like this.
Synonyms & Antonyms
Synonyms
exhale
snort
cough
Antonyms
inhale
suppress
control
noun
Definition
A sudden, forceful expulsion of air from the nose and mouth, often caused by irritation in the nasal passages.
Example
He let out a loud sneeze during the meeting, surprising everyone.
Conversation
Did you hear that loud sneeze earlier?
Yeah, it startled me! I hope they're okay.
I know, right? It sounded like it hurt.
Root Explanation
The word 'sneeze' originates from the Middle English 'snesen', which is derived from the Old English 'fneosan', meaning to sneeze or to snort. The word reflects the action of expelling air from the nose and mouth suddenly.
Memory Tip
Think of the Old English word 'fneosan', which describes the action of suddenly expelling air — that's why 'sneeze' refers to that quick action.
Visually Confused Words
neeze