earache

noun

ear·​ache ˈir-ˌāk How to pronounce earache (audio)
: an ache or pain in the ear

Examples of earache in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Irritation in your throat and certain nerves can lead to sore throat, cough, trouble swallowing, and earache. Sarah Hudgens, Health, 5 Oct. 2024 In some cases, students may even attend with an earache, diarrhea or wheezing, according to the health department’s guidelines. Melissa Rudy, Fox News, 13 Feb. 2024 While children may have a harder time distinguishing a bug in their ear from a general earache, adults should be able to tell right away. Aria Bendix, NBC News, 25 Oct. 2023 Humans have been using castoreum for more than 2,000 years, mostly to cure ailments like headaches, earaches, toothaches, fevers and gout. Margaret Osborne, Smithsonian Magazine, 21 Nov. 2023 See all Example Sentences for earache 

Word History

First Known Use

1678, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of earache was in 1678

Dictionary Entries Near earache

Cite this Entry

“Earache.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/earache. Accessed 22 Nov. 2024.

Kids Definition

earache

noun
ear·​ache ˈi(ə)r-ˌāk How to pronounce earache (audio)
: an ache or pain in the ear

Medical Definition

earache

noun
ear·​ache ˈi(ə)r-ˌāk How to pronounce earache (audio)
: an ache or pain in the ear

called also otalgia

More from Merriam-Webster on earache

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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