toothache

noun

tooth·​ache ˈtüth-ˌāk How to pronounce toothache (audio)
Synonyms of toothachenext
: pain in or about a tooth

Examples of toothache in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Each tablet contains 200 milligrams of ibuprofen and is one of the best over-the-counter pain relievers for those suffering from conditions such as muscular aches, minor arthritis pain, toothache, backache, menstrual cramps or minor aches. Bestreviews, Chicago Tribune, 16 Apr. 2026 This is not 1800 or 1700 where a toothache can kill someone. ABC News, 5 Apr. 2026 But that pattern of inequality was roughly consistent across space, unlike the sharp modern gaps between countries, and even kings and popes died of illnesses and suffered from toothaches like everyone else. Literary Hub, 25 Mar. 2026 To let someone pass because of a tooth infection, toothache? Penny Kmitt, CBS News, 6 Mar. 2026 See All Example Sentences for toothache

Word History

First Known Use

14th century, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of toothache was in the 14th century

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Toothache.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/toothache. Accessed 1 May. 2026.

Kids Definition

toothache

noun
tooth·​ache ˈtü-ˌthāk How to pronounce toothache (audio)
: pain in or near a tooth

Medical Definition

toothache

noun
tooth·​ache ˈtüth-ˌāk How to pronounce toothache (audio)
: pain in or about a tooth

called also odontalgia

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