ASTHMA

[asth.ma] n [ME asma, fr. ML, modif. of Gk asthma] (14c): a condition often of allergic origin that is marked by continuous or paroxysmal labored breathing accompanied by wheezing, by a sense of constriction in the chest, and often by attacks of coughing or gasping -- asth.mat.ic adj or n -- asth.mat.i.cal.ly adv