# puke

/ˈpjuk/ (US) · /pjˈuːk/ (UK) · CEFR B2 · Verb

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/puke
Updated: 2026-05-07

## Definition

to vomit or be sick. It is a very informal and slightly gross word for throwing up.

For teachers: to eject the contents of the stomach through the mouth. Often used intransitively, though it can take a direct object; carries a crude or informal tone.

## Examples

- The smell of the old milk made him want to puke.
- He spent the entire boat trip leaning over the side because the waves made him puke.
- While medical professionals use the term 'emesis', most people in casual settings use 'puke' to describe the physical act of being sick after eating something bad.

## Usage notes

- Often used intransitively, but can be transitive when describing the substance produced.

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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.