How Do You Spell STERNUTATION?

Pronunciation: [stˌɜːnjuːtˈe͡ɪʃən] (IPA)

The word "sternutation" refers to the act of sneezing. Its spelling can be tricky for those unfamiliar with the word. Using IPA phonetic transcription, the word is pronounced as /stɜːrnjʊˈteɪʃən/. The first two syllables rhyme with "fern-yoo." The "t" is pronounced, followed by "ew" as in "new" and finally "ay-shun." When seen in print, it can be difficult to know where to split the word, but knowing the proper pronunciation can help with spelling.

STERNUTATION Meaning and Definition

  1. Sternutation refers to the act of sneezing or the specific sound produced during a sneeze. It is a physiological response that occurs when the body tries to expel irritating substances or foreign particles from the nasal passages. Sternutation is a reflex action, initiated by the stimulation of sensory nerves in the nasal lining, which triggers a series of rapid and forceful contractions of the chest muscles, diaphragm, and lung tissues.

    During sternutation, a person takes a deep breath in, closing their glottis (the opening between the vocal cords) to prevent air from escaping through the mouth. Then, the chest muscles and diaphragm suddenly contract, increasing the pressure in the lungs. This forceful expulsion of air opens the glottis, allowing it to escape rapidly through the nose. The expelled air carries with it any irritants, such as allergens or dust particles, that triggered the sneeze.

    Sternutation often occurs in response to various factors, including allergies, respiratory infections, nasal irritants, and viruses. It is a protective mechanism of the body to clear the nasal passages and maintain their optimal function. The force and volume of a sternutation can vary from person to person, and even from sneeze to sneeze, depending on the individual and the particular stimulus.

    Overall, sternutation is a natural and necessary bodily function that helps keep the respiratory system clean and clear of potentially harmful substances.

  2. The act of sneezing.

    Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.

Common Misspellings for STERNUTATION

  • aternutation
  • zternutation
  • xternutation
  • dternutation
  • eternutation
  • wternutation
  • srernutation
  • sfernutation
  • sgernutation
  • syernutation
  • s6ernutation
  • s5ernutation
  • stwrnutation
  • stsrnutation
  • stdrnutation
  • strrnutation
  • st4rnutation
  • st3rnutation
  • steenutation

Etymology of STERNUTATION

The word "sternutation" originates from the Latin term "sternutatio", which means "sneezing". It is derived from the verb "sternuere", which means "to sneeze". The Latin term further traces its roots to the Indo-European base *ster-, which signifies "to spread" or "to scatter". This base is also linked to the word "sterile". Therefore, "sternutation" essentially refers to the act or process of sneezing.

Similar spelling words for STERNUTATION

Plural form of STERNUTATION is STERNUTATIONS

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