cough
expel air suddenly / clear the throat / reveal reluctantly
NounIntransitive VerbTransitive Verb
pl: coughspast: coughedpp: cougheding: coughing
This term describes a sudden, forceful expulsion of air, typically associated with respiratory irritation or illness. It carries a visceral, auditory quality, often implying a lack of control over the body's reflex. In a figurative sense, the phrase "cough up" shifts the meaning from a physical reflex to a reluctant surrender. It suggests a forced extraction of money or secrets, mirroring the physical effort of expelling something from the throat.
Meanings
Noun
An act of expelling air from the lungs suddenly with a sharp sound, often to clear the throat or as a symptom of illness.
"He had a persistent cough that lasted for weeks."
Intransitive Verb
To expel air from the lungs suddenly with a sharp sound.
"She started to cough during the quiet part of the performance."