# choking

/ˈtʃoʊkɪŋ/ (US) · /tʃˈəʊkɪŋ/ (UK)

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/choking
Updated: 2026-06-20

## Senses

### 1. airway blockage

noun · CEFR B2

when your airway is blocked by food or an object, making it impossible to breathe.

For teachers: the physiological state or event of airway obstruction leading to asphyxia.

- The waiter saved a customer from choking by using the Heimlich maneuver.
- Choking remains a leading cause of accidental injury among toddlers, necessitating constant supervision during meal times.

Usage: often used as an uncountable noun to describe the medical emergency.

### 2. coughing or gasping

noun · CEFR B2

the act or sound of coughing or struggling to breathe.

For teachers: the act of gasping or coughing convulsively due to a partial obstruction or irritation of the throat.

- A sudden fit of choking made it impossible for him to finish his sentence.
- The dusty air in the old attic brought on a bout of choking that forced the cleaners to step outside for fresh air.

## Examples

- Choking is a common danger for small children.
- The first aid course teaches you exactly what to do if you witness someone choking on a piece of food.
- While the physical sensation of choking is terrifying, the physiological response involves a rapid increase in heart rate as the body struggles to restore oxygen flow to the brain.

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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.