Headache

Definition

Headache is a noun that refers to pain or discomfort in the head or upper neck region. It can also be used metaphorically to describe a source of annoyance or difficulty.

Parts of Speech

• Noun

Pronunciation

American English

• IPA Pronunciation: /ˈhɛdˌeɪk/
• Respelling: HED-ayk

British English

• IPA Pronunciation: /ˈhɛdˌeɪk/
• Respelling: HED-ayk

Etymology

The word "headache" originates from the Old English "hēafodece," a combination of "hēafod" (head) and "ece" (pain). It is derived from Proto-Germanic "*haubud-agiz*" (head pain) and has been used to describe physical head pain since at least the 12th century.

Derivatives

• Headachy (adjective)
• Headachiness (noun)
• Headache-inducing (adjective)
• Non-headache (noun/adjective)
• Cluster headache (noun)

Synonyms

• Migraine
• Cephalalgia
• Nuisance (figurative)

Antonyms

• Relief
• Comfort
• Ease

Usage

The term "headache" is commonly used in both medical and metaphorical contexts. For example, "She took medicine to relieve her headache," or "The delay caused a lot of logistical headaches for the team."

Related Terms

• Migraine: A severe, often chronic type of headache.
• Stress: A common trigger for headaches.
• Tension: A type of headache caused by muscle strain or stress.

Detailed Definitions

Noun

• Pain or discomfort in the head or neck: Refers to a physical ailment often caused by stress, illness, or tension.
  • Example: "He experienced a sharp headache after staring at the computer screen all day."
• A source of annoyance or difficulty: Used figuratively to describe a challenging or troublesome situation.
  • Example: "Managing the budget has been a real headache for the department."