# nostril

/ˈnɑstɹɪɫ/ (US) · /nˈɒstɹəl/ (UK) · CEFR B2 · Noun

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/nostril
Updated: 2026-05-27

## Definition

one of the two holes in your nose that let air in and out. You have one on the left and one on the right.

For teachers: one of the two external openings of the nose, through which air enters and exits the respiratory system. Often used in the plural to refer to the nose as a whole.

## Examples

- He held his breath and closed one nostril.
- The cold wind stung her nostrils as she walked through the open field.
- The horse's nostrils flared wide in response to the scent of the approaching predator, signaling a heightened state of alertness to the rest of the herd.

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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.