subdict-logo

cough

Definition

  • verb: to force air through your throat with a short, loud noise often because you are sick
  • verb: to expel air from the lungs suddenly with an explosive noise
  • often used with 'up'
  • synonyms: expectorate, hem, hack

Examples

  • The police made the suspect 'cough up' the names of his accomplices.

  • They 'coughed up' [='lost, gave up'] the lead in the second half.

  • We had to 'cough up' an extra hundred dollars for the car rental.

Movie clips