whooping cough

/ˈwʊpɪŋ ˌkɔf/

UK: /ˈhuːpɪŋ ˌkɔːf/

whooping cough

English Noun

Definition

A contagious disease of the respiratory system that usually affects children caused by the bacterium Bordetella pertussis, the advanced stage of which is characterised by spasms of coughing followed by a whooping sound during the intake of breath.

Etymology

From whooping + cough, from the characteristic-sounding cough that is a major symptom.