noun

sinusitis

sy-nuh-SY-tis

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Sinusitis (noun) means Sinusitis is the inflammation of one or more of the sinuses in the skull around the nose. Example: “His sinusitis flared up again with the change in weather.”

noun

pathology Sinusitis is the inflammation of one or more of the sinuses in the skull around the nose.

"His sinusitis flared up again with the change in weather."

"The doctor prescribed a nasal spray to ease her sinusitis."

"Chronic sinusitis can cause constant headaches and facial pain."

How to use sinusitis

Learner’s notes

In plain EnglishSinusitis means your sinuses, the air pockets around your nose, are inflamed and often sore or blocked.

When to use it

It is a medical term, though common enough to appear in everyday conversation about colds and allergies.

Memory tip

The -itis ending is a useful pattern to learn, since it marks inflammation in many other medical words too.

Trace the full origin ↓

Common pairings

chronic sinusitis acute sinusitis sinusitis symptoms bout of sinusitis

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C2 · Advanced serendipity Fortunate discoveries made entirely by accident.

Gen Z slang rizz Charm — the ability to attract a romantic interest.

B2 · Intermediate empathy The capacity to share another person’s feelings.

C1 · Advanced nonchalant Casually calm and relaxed; unconcerned.

Internet slang delulu Delusional — believing something against the odds.

Etymology nostalgia Greek nostos “return home” + algos “pain”.

C2 · Advanced serendipity Fortunate discoveries made entirely by accident.

Gen Z slang rizz Charm — the ability to attract a romantic interest.

B2 · Intermediate empathy The capacity to share another person’s feelings.

C1 · Advanced nonchalant Casually calm and relaxed; unconcerned.

Internet slang delulu Delusional — believing something against the odds.

Etymology nostalgia Greek nostos “return home” + algos “pain”.

Test yourself on “sinusitis” A quick quiz — meaning, synonyms & usage →

Fill the gap

Can you complete this real example?

His _____ flared up again with the change in weather.

Etymology

Sinusitis is formed from sinus, the word for the air-filled cavities around the nose, with the medical suffix -itis added to show inflammation.

Origin: English

Rhymes for sinusitis

itis gastritis hepatitis arthritis dermatitis laryngitis bronchitis meningitis peritonitis tonsillitis appendicitis encephalitis

See all rhymes for sinusitis →

Frequently asked questions

What causes sinusitis?

It is caused by inflammation of the paranasal sinuses, often triggered by an infection, allergy or irritation of the lining.

What are the symptoms of sinusitis?

Typical symptoms include facial pain or pressure, a blocked or runny nose, and sometimes headaches, though the exact experience varies.

Is sinusitis the same as a sinus infection?

Sinusitis simply means the sinuses are inflamed, and this inflammation is often caused by an infection, so the terms are commonly used together.

What is the meaning of sinusitis?

"sinusitis" (noun) means sinusitis is the inflammation of one or more of the sinuses in the skull around the nose.