What does sternutation mean?
Sternutation means a sneeze, particularly the sudden expulsion of air through the nose and mouth. It has a formal, literary quality and often suggests an abrupt or forceful event, as in a phrase such as “a thunderous sternutation.” The word is much less common than the everyday verb and noun “sneeze,” but it gives formal or humorous emphasis to the action. It can describe either the physical act or, by extension, the sound produced. Because the expression sounds ceremonious or slightly old-fashioned, writers often use it for comic effect, especially when describing an uncontrollable sneeze. Its unusual form also reflects its Latin ancestry, while retaining a clear connection to the familiar bodily action. Although dictionaries recognize it in modern English, speakers are far more likely to use “sneeze” in everyday conversation.
nounThe act of sneezing; a single sneeze.
- The act or sound of sneezing.
"A sudden sternutation shook the papers from her desk."
"He suppressed a sternutation just before the lecture began."
"The spice brought on an involuntary sternutation."
Used when referring to multiple instances of sneezing, especially in literary or humorous contexts.
"A chorus of sternutations followed the pepper."
A sternutation may be small, but its explosive sound has carried through Latin, medieval manuscripts, and modern English alike.
Reviewed by Deb Chak, Editor. AI-assisted content curated by RJS Tech Solutions LLP.
Where does sternutation come from?
Sternutation comes through medieval and Latin usage from Latin sternutare, meaning “to sneeze,” with the corresponding noun sternutatio. The English word has long circulated in formal and medical contexts, though it remains uncommon in ordinary speech. Related forms include sternutative and sternutatory, both meaning “causing or relating to sneezing.”
Related word forms
How sternutation is actually used
Chiefly literary, formal, or humorous. In ordinary modern English, “sneeze” is the usual word.