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 quotes

  • (..) Yeah, he was fine. Just whacked out of his mind. You all were. Alright. Come forward. And turn. Alright, here we go. And cough. Cough. Give me one more. Alright. Attaboy. Felix, you can put your robe on. The nurse will be here in a minute. (..)
    2009 The Hangover