# fainting

/ˈfeɪntɪŋ/ (US) · /fˈeɪntɪŋ/ (UK) · CEFR B2 · Noun

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/fainting
Updated: 2026-05-11

## Definition

a sudden, short loss of consciousness where you fall down. It usually happens when not enough blood reaches the brain.

For teachers: a temporary loss of consciousness caused by a sudden drop in blood flow to the brain. Often used as a gerund to describe the medical event or the physical sensation preceding it.

## Examples

- She felt a wave of fainting coming on in the heat.
- The doctor explained that his fainting was likely caused by dehydration and standing up too quickly.
- While the patient reported several episodes of fainting during the summer months, clinical tests revealed no underlying cardiac issues, suggesting the cause was purely vasovagal.

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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.