# bronchitis

/bɹɑŋˈkaɪtəs/ (US) · /bɹənkˈaɪtɪs/ (UK) · CEFR B2 · Noun

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/bronchitis
Updated: 2026-05-19

## Definition

an illness that makes your chest feel tight and hurts when you cough. It usually happens when you have a cold or the flu and your airways get inflamed.

For teachers: an inflammation of the mucous membranes of the bronchi, typically caused by a viral infection. Characterised by a persistent cough and difficulty breathing.

## Examples

- He had to stay home from work because of his bronchitis.
- The doctor prescribed a cough syrup to help him manage the symptoms of his acute bronchitis.
- While most cases of bronchitis are viral and self-limiting, chronic bronchitis is a serious condition often associated with long-term exposure to irritants like cigarette smoke.

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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.