sinus

noun

si·​nus ˈsī-nəs How to pronounce sinus (audio)
: cavity, hollow: such as
a
: a narrow elongated tract extending from a focus of suppuration and serving for the discharge of pus
b(1)
: a cavity in the substance of a bone of the skull that usually communicates with the nostrils and contains air
(2)
: a channel for venous blood
(3)
: a dilatation in a bodily canal or vessel
c
: a cleft or indentation between adjoining lobes (as of a leaf or corolla)

Examples of sinus in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web Neti pots are commonly used to flush the nasal passages, helping to alleviate allergy symptoms or clear mucus during a sinus infection. Cara Lynn Shultz, Peoplemag, 14 Mar. 2024 That’s why Vicks Cool Mist Humidifier is a go-to for people suffering from bad sinuses. Amari Pollard, Verywell Health, 12 Mar. 2024 Some people with the condition develop skin tunnels, also known as sinus tracts, which can open up, leak fluid, and cause scars. Tatiana Walk-Morris, SELF, 26 Feb. 2024 Other at-home remedies can help to relieve discomfort caused by symptoms, such as placing a humidifier in their room, using saline nose drops or stream to help clear sinuses, offering age-appropriate solutions to sore throats such as cough drops or honey, or applying vapor rub to the chest. USA TODAY, 3 Feb. 2024 The next morning, despite a sinus infection, Rowley went out into the blizzard to check on Diamond and Rip and figure out how to keep them warm. USA TODAY, 19 Jan. 2024 Mom doctored us up with pineapple juice for scratchy throats and sinus infections. Rita Nader Heikenfeld, The Enquirer, 12 Jan. 2024 That could impact people who experience sinus pressure, according to the website. Ron Hurtibise, Sun Sentinel, 1 Jan. 2024 Pink previously postponed her show in Arlington, Texas, from Sept. 29 to Nov. 26 due to a sinus infection. Wesley Stenzel, EW.com, 17 Oct. 2023

These examples are programmatically compiled from various online sources to illustrate current usage of the word 'sinus.' Any opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback about these examples.

Word History

Etymology

Middle English, from Medieval Latin, from Latin, curve, fold, hollow

First Known Use

15th century, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of sinus was in the 15th century

Dictionary Entries Near sinus

Cite this Entry

“Sinus.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/sinus. Accessed 29 Mar. 2024.

Kids Definition

sinus

noun
si·​nus ˈsī-nəs How to pronounce sinus (audio)
: a hollow place : cavity
especially : any of several cavities in the skull that usually connect with the nostrils

Medical Definition

sinus

noun
si·​nus ˈsī-nəs How to pronounce sinus (audio)
: a cavity or hollow in the body: as
a
: a narrow elongated tract extending from a focus of suppuration and serving for the discharge of pus
a tuberculous sinus
b(1)
: a cavity in the substance of a bone of the skull that usually communicates with the nostrils and contains air
(2)
: a channel for venous blood
(3)
: a dilatation in a bodily canal or vessel

More from Merriam-Webster on sinus

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