sleep apnea

noun

: apnea that recurs during sleep and is caused especially by obstruction of the airway or a disturbance in the brain's respiratory center

Examples of sleep apnea in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web
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Obstructive sleep apnea, common in men with ED, contributes to intermittent hypoxia, which impairs endothelial health and suppresses testosterone. Ximena Araya-Fischel, Forbes.com, 26 June 2025 People with certain medical conditions, including sleep apnea and GERD, should avoid sleeping on their backs. Rachael Zimlich, Verywell Health, 26 June 2025 From new devices for sleep apnea to drugs for cancer, to creams for chronic itching and drops for improved eyesight, advances are underway that hold promise. Cindy Krischer Goodman, Sun Sentinel, 11 June 2025 Chronic conditions: Many conditions, including kidney disease, diabetes, obesity, obstructive sleep apnea, and thyroid disorders, may contribute to high blood pressure.45 Sedentary lifestyle: Having a low level of physical activity increases the risk of hypertension. Angela Ryan Lee, Health, 30 May 2025 See All Example Sentences for sleep apnea

Word History

First Known Use

1975, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of sleep apnea was in 1975

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Cite this Entry

“Sleep apnea.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/sleep%20apnea. Accessed 4 Jul. 2025.

Medical Definition

sleep apnea

noun
: brief periods of recurrent cessation of breathing during sleep that is caused especially by obstruction of the airway or a disturbance in the brain's respiratory center and is associated especially with excessive daytime sleepiness

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