# asthma

/ˈæzmə/ (US) · /ˈæsmɐ/ (UK) · CEFR B1 · Noun

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/asthma
Updated: 2026-05-02

## Definition

a medical condition that makes it hard to breathe. It often causes a tight feeling in your chest and makes you cough or wheeze.

For teachers: a chronic inflammatory disease of the airways, characterised by reversible airflow obstruction and bronchospasm. Often associated with allergic reactions or other forms of hypersensitivity.

## Examples

- He uses an inhaler to manage his asthma.
- The cold winter air often triggers her asthma, making it difficult for her to exercise outdoors without a scarf.
- While childhood asthma sometimes resolves during adolescence, many patients require lifelong management to prevent acute exacerbations triggered by environmental pollutants or physical exertion.

## Usage notes

- Usually uncountable; when used in the plural ('asthmas'), it refers to different clinical types or classifications of the condition.

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From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.