halitosis

noun

hal·​i·​to·​sis ˌha-lə-ˈtō-səs 

: a condition of having fetid breath

Examples of halitosis in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

However, some people may experience bad breath (halitosis), sore throat, or a feeling that something is stuck in their throat. —Sarah Hudgens, Health, 5 Oct. 2024

Avoid using mouthwash to treat halitosis (persistent bad breath). —Sherri Gordon, Health, 1 Sep. 2024

Then there was the fella in Westchester, who had serious halitosis, who leaned in for a kiss after dinner. —Lara Sterling, Los Angeles Times, 27 Oct. 2023

Heartburn Most halitosis cases are caused by the bacteria in a person's mouth. —Maria Masters, Health, 21 Aug. 2023

Health Conditions Sometimes halitosis can be a symptom of a health condition like heartburn, high blood pressure, or Sjogren's syndrome. —Maria Masters, Health, 21 Aug. 2023

However, not flossing or brushing your teeth regularly can result in problems like cavities and gum disease associated with halitosis. —Maria Masters, Health, 21 Aug. 2023

Key Takeaways Bad breath, also known as halitosis, can be embarrassing and hard to get rid of. —Mira Miller, Verywell Health, 25 May 2023

So, what’s the solution to occasional halitosis? —Cristina Montemayor, Men's Health, 15 Aug. 2022

Word History

Etymology

New Latin, from Latin halitus breath, from halare to breathe — more at exhale

First Known Use

1874, in the meaning defined above

Rhymes for halitosis

• acanthosis
• acidosis
• alkalosis
• amaurosis
• ankylosis
• asbestosis
• brucellosis
• cyanosis
• dermatosis
• diagnosis
• ecchymosis
• exostosis

Medical Definition

halitosis

noun

hal·​i·​to·​sis ˌhal-ə-ˈtō-səs 

plural halitoses -ˌsēz 

: a condition of having fetid breath