Involuntary sudden expulsion of air through the nose and mouth, resulting from irritation of the mucous membrane of the upper respiratory tract, as from a cold or allergic reaction.
An involuntary violent reflex expulsion of air through the nose and mouth provoked by irritation of the mucous membrane lining the nasal cavity.
To expel air forcibly through the nose and mouth by spasmodic contraction of muscles of expiration caused by an irritation of nasal mucosa. The sneeze reflex may be produced by a great number of stimuli. Placing a foot on a cold surface will provoke a sneeze in some people, whereas looking at a bright light or sunlight will cause it in others. Firm pressure applied to the middle of the upper lip and just under the nose will sometimes prevent a sneeze that is about to occur.