headache

noun

head·​ache ˈhed-ˌāk How to pronounce headache (audio)
1
: pain in the head
2
: a vexatious or baffling situation or problem
meetings had become a giant headacheFranklin Foer
headachy adjective
or less commonly headachey

Examples of headache in a Sentence

I'm starting to get a headache. The symptoms include fever and headache. The city's biggest headache is traffic. Managing your finances can be a real headache.
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.
Skeptics point to volatility, security headaches, and the risk of distorting bitcoin markets if a major government holds too large a stake. Dave Birnbaum, Forbes, 12 Mar. 2025 These side effects include hot flashes, nausea, calf cramps, skin itching or burning, headaches, abdominal discomforts, and fatigue.18 6. Emmanuella Ogbonna, Health, 11 Mar. 2025 Some side effects, such as headaches, nausea, and stomach pain, are common and mild, while others are more severe and require medical attention. Ayesha Gulzar, Verywell Health, 10 Mar. 2025 Patients may also experience headaches, dizziness and chills, in addition to abdominal issues like nausea, vomiting and diarrhea. Hannah Parry, Newsweek, 8 Mar. 2025 See All Example Sentences for headache

Word History

First Known Use

before the 12th century, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Time Traveler
The first known use of headache was before the 12th century

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Cite this Entry

“Headache.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/headache. Accessed 17 Mar. 2025.

Kids Definition

headache

noun
head·​ache ˈhed-ˌāk How to pronounce headache (audio)
1
: pain in the head
2
: an annoying or baffling situation or problem
headachy adjective

Medical Definition

headache

noun
head·​ache ˈhed-ˌāk How to pronounce headache (audio)
: pain in the head

called also cephalalgia

headachy adjective

More from Merriam-Webster on headache

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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