The word "chincough" is an archaic term used to describe whooping cough. The spelling of this word may seem confusing, but it follows the rules of English phonetics. In IPA phonetic transcription, ch is pronounced as /tʃ/ and i is pronounced as /ɪ/. The word ends with -cough, which is pronounced as /kɔf/. Therefore, the correct pronunciation of "chincough" is /tʃɪnkɔf/. This pronunciation may seem odd to modern English speakers, but it was commonly used in the past.
Chincough, also known as pertussis or whooping cough, is a highly contagious bacterial respiratory infection that primarily affects the respiratory system, particularly the upper respiratory passages.
This condition is caused by the bacterium Bordetella pertussis and is characterized by severe coughing spells that are often followed by a high-pitched "whooping" sound during inhalation. It is primarily transmitted through respiratory droplets when an infected person coughs or sneezes, making it easily transmittable in crowded or close-contact environments.
The initial symptoms of chincough resemble those of a common cold, including mild fever, runny nose, and sneezing. However, it progresses to severe bouts of coughing that can last for several weeks or even months. The coughing spells become more frequent and intense over time and can be so severe that they might cause vomiting, exhaustion, and even broken ribs.
Chincough is particularly dangerous for infants and young children, as it can lead to serious complications such as pneumonia, seizures, or even death. Therefore, vaccination is crucial in preventing the spread of this disease, and it is recommended for children and adults to receive the pertussis vaccine to protect themselves and prevent the transmission of the infection to vulnerable individuals.
Proper medical treatment for chincough often includes the use of antibiotics to reduce the severity and duration of the illness, as well as supportive care to alleviate symptoms and discomfort. Isolation and hygiene practices, such as covering the mouth and nose when coughing or sneezing, are essential to prevent the spread of chincough to others.
Hooping-cough.
Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.
The word "chincough" has a slightly complicated etymology. It is believed to have originated from a combination of two root words, namely "chin" and "cough".
The term "chin" is derived from the Middle English word "chinne", which meant "chin" or "lower part of the face". It can be traced back to the Old English word "cinne" or "cin" with the same meaning.
The word "cough" has an even older ancestry, rooted in the Old English word "cohhian" which meant "to cough". It can be further traced back to the Middle Dutch word "cogen" and the Old Norse word "koka", both with similar meanings.
When these two words merged, "chincough" was formed, referring to a specific type of cough characterized by a spasm or convulsion of the respiratory muscles.