The word "ptarmic" is a rare term that refers to something that causes sneezing. It is spelled using the combination of "pt" at the beginning, which can be tricky to pronounce. The IPA phonetic transcription of this word is /tɑrmɪk/, where the "p" is silent and the "t" is pronounced, followed by the "a" and "r" sounds. The "m" and "i" are then pronounced consecutively, ending with a short "k" sound. Although not commonly used in everyday conversations, this word is an interesting example of English language spelling.
1. Causing sneezing. 2. An agent which provokes sneezing, a sternutatory.
A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.
The word "ptarmic" is derived from the Latin word "ptarmicus", which in turn comes from the Greek word "ptarmikos". The Greek term "ptarmikos" is derived from the verb "ptarneîn", meaning "to sneeze". In English, "ptarmic" refers to something causing or related to sneezing, often used to describe substances that can induce sneezing or irritate the nasal passages.