sore throat

noun

: pain in the throat due to inflammation of the fauces and pharynx

Examples of sore throat in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
According to his memoir, Rockett had experienced a sore throat and a swollen lymph node for more than a month. — Stephanie Nolasco, FOXNews.com, 18 Oct. 2026 People are having to travel an hour just to get a sore throat looked at. — Max Gao, Variety, 16 Oct. 2026 Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) like ibuprofen or naproxen can help relieve pain and discomfort from headaches, body aches and sore throats by reducing inflammation, says Reed. — Andee Tagle, NPR, 15 Oct. 2026 And the warning signs of ingestion—sore throat, coughing—are maddeningly common. — Eliza Thompson, Time, 15 Oct. 2026 See All Example Sentences for sore throat

Word History

First Known Use

1629, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of sore throat was in 1629

Rhymes for sore throat

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Browse Nearby Words

sore shin
sore throat
sorex
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Cite this Entry

“Sore throat.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/sore%20throat. Accessed 21 Oct. 2026.

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Kids Definition

sore throat

noun
: a throat that is painful because of inflammation

Medical Definition

sore throat

noun
: painful throat due to inflammation of the fauces and pharynx

More from Merriam-Webster on sore throat

Britannica.com: Encyclopedia article about sore throat

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