tinnitus

noun

tin·​ni·​tus ˈti-nə-təs  tə-ˈnī-təs 

: a sensation of noise (such as a ringing or roaring) that is typically caused by a bodily condition (such as a disturbance of the auditory nerve or wax in the ear) and usually is of the subjective form which can only be heard by the one affected

Examples of tinnitus in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

Perry had been suffering from tinnitus and a sore throat every night. —Glenn Garner, Deadline, 22 Sep. 2024

Patients with idiopathic intracranial hypertension typically experience headaches and vision changes, tinnitus or eye pain. —Danielle Wilhour, The Conversation, 14 Aug. 2024

For some people, this might show up as tinnitus — an awful internal ringing or buzzing noise — or even hearing loss. —Avital Norman Nathman, Flow Space, 10 July 2024

Those with tinnitus are also more likely to have anxiety or depression. —Zach Dyer, NPR, 26 June 2024

Word History

Etymology

Latin, ringing, tinnitus, from tinnire to ring, of imitative origin

First Known Use

1843, in the meaning defined above

Medical Definition

tinnitus

noun

tin·​ni·​tus ˈtin-ət-əs  ti-ˈnīt-əs 

: a sensation of noise (as a ringing or roaring) that is typically caused by a bodily condition (as a disturbance of the auditory nerve or wax in the ear) and usually is of the subjective form which can only be heard by the one affected