pertussis

noun

per·​tus·​sis pər-ˈtə-səs How to pronounce pertussis (audio)

Examples of pertussis in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web
These examples are automatically compiled from online sources to illustrate current usage. Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback about these examples.
Threat level: Whooping cough, also known as pertussis, is a highly contagious bacterial respiratory infection that starts with symptoms like the common cold, but coughing can last for weeks or months. Meira Gebel, Axios, 11 Oct. 2024 Here’s what to know about pertussis and how to keep yourself and your family safe from the infection. Meghan Bartels, Scientific American, 9 Oct. 2024 Vaccines against childhood diseases like measles and pertussis helped more children survive into adulthood. Alice Park, TIME, 8 Oct. 2024 In terms of prevention, the best way to avoid contracting whooping cough, or pertussis, is to get vaccinated for it. Maia Pandey, Journal Sentinel, 29 July 2024 See all Example Sentences for pertussis 

Word History

Etymology

New Latin, from Latin per- thoroughly + tussis cough

First Known Use

circa 1772, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of pertussis was circa 1772

Dictionary Entries Near pertussis

Cite this Entry

“Pertussis.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/pertussis. Accessed 16 Nov. 2024.

Kids Definition

pertussis

noun
per·​tus·​sis pər-ˈtəs-əs How to pronounce pertussis (audio)

Medical Definition

pertussis

noun
per·​tus·​sis pər-ˈtəs-əs How to pronounce pertussis (audio)

More from Merriam-Webster on pertussis

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
Love words? Need even more definitions?

Subscribe to America's largest dictionary and get thousands more definitions and advanced search—ad free!