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common cold
noun
: an acute disease of the upper respiratory tract that is marked by inflammation of the mucous membranes of the nose, throat, eyes, and eustachian tubes and by a watery then purulent discharge and is caused by any of several viruses (such as a rhinovirus or an adenovirus)
Examples of common cold in a Sentence
Recent Examples on the Web
Something as benign as a common cold had the potential to be deadly.
—
Kay Johnson, Twin Cities, 6 Feb. 2025
Compared to warm mist humidifiers, research suggests that cool mist counterparts could also be more effective at alleviating common cold and flu symptoms like sinus and respiratory discomfort.
—
Maggie Horton, People.com, 6 Feb. 2025
Along with flu, winter months are highs for the common cold, RSV and COVID-19.
—
Eduardo Cuevas, USA TODAY, 19 Jan. 2025
Most of us will catch the common cold at least eight times this year.
—
Maya Dollarhide, Parents, 17 Jan. 2025
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Word History
First Known Use
1713, in the meaning defined above
Dictionary Entries Near common cold
Cite this Entry
“Common cold.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/common%20cold. Accessed 19 Feb. 2025.
Kids Definition
common cold
noun
: a contagious viral illness of the structures used in breathing which causes the nose and throat to be sore, swollen, and inflamed and in which there is usually much mucus and coughing and sneezing
Medical Definition
common cold
noun
: an acute contagious disease of the upper respiratory tract that is marked by inflammation of the mucous membranes of the nose, throat, eyes, and eustachian tubes with a watery then purulent discharge and is caused by any of several viruses (as a rhinovirus or an adenovirus)
More from Merriam-Webster on common cold
Nglish: Translation of common cold for Spanish Speakers
Britannica.com: Encyclopedia article about common cold
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