hay fever

noun

: an acute allergic reaction to pollen that is usually seasonal and is marked by sneezing, nasal discharge and congestion, and itching and watering of the eyes

called also pollinosis

Examples of hay fever in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

Symptoms of hay fever include stuffy (inflamed) nasal passages, itchy throat, and watery eyes.1617 Research has shown ginger supplementation may be a potential alternative to medications such as Claritin (loratadine), an antihistamine. —Lauren O'Connor, Ms, Health, 10 Feb. 2025

People with atopic dermatitis usually have a personal or family history of eczema, hay fever, or asthma.63 Irritant Contact Dermatitis This type of dermatitis develops when a skin irritant, such as friction from pads, tampons, condoms, or sweat, produces inflammation. —Heidi Cope, Health, 24 Dec. 2024

Allergic conditions: People with asthma, eczema, food allergies, or hay fever (seasonal allergies) are at higher risk. —Lindsay Curtis, Health, 19 Jan. 2025

Like hay fever and environmental allergies, a gluten allergy may cause a runny nose and congestion. —Daniel More, Verywell Health, 17 Jan. 2025

Word History

First Known Use

1829, in the meaning defined above

Rhymes for hay fever

• achiever
• believer
• deceiver
• perceiver
• receiver
• reliever
• retriever
• transceiver
• cleaver
• leaver
• weaver
• unbeliever

Kids Definition

hay fever

noun

: an allergy to pollen that is usually marked by sneezing, a runny or stuffed nose, and itchy and watering eyes

Medical Definition

hay fever

noun

ˈhā-ˌfē-vər 

: an acute allergic reaction to pollen that is usually seasonal and is marked by sneezing, nasal discharge and congestion, and itching and watering of the eyes

called also pollinosis