retch

UK: rɛtʃ | US: rɛtʃ

Definition
  1. vi. to make the sound and movement of vomiting, often without bringing anything up

  2. vt. to vomit or attempt to vomit

Structure

No data yet.

Etymology

The word "retch" originates from Old English hrǣcan, meaning "to clear the throat, spit, or vomit." It is likely imitative in origin, reflecting the guttural sound associated with the action. Over time, it evolved to specifically describe the involuntary spasm of the throat and stomach preceding vomiting. The word's compact structure and onomatopoeic nature classify it as non-splittable under the morpheme integrity rule.

Examples
  1. The smell of rotten eggs made him retch uncontrollably.

  2. She leaned over the railing, retching but unable to vomit.

  3. Even the thought of eating raw oysters made him retch.

  4. The patient began to retch after taking the bitter medicine.

  5. The foul odor in the room caused several people to retch.