cough syrup

noun

: any of various sweet usually medicated liquids used to relieve coughing

Examples of cough syrup 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.
Liquid products, such as cough syrup, should be sealed in their original container. — Caleb Lunetta, San Diego Union-Tribune, 23 Oct. 2025 That’s why it’s found its way into some cough syrups and cold medicines, but the supplement is an excellent way to get the same benefits. — Bestreviews, Chicago Tribune, 12 Feb. 2026 Medications Do not grab that expired cough syrup from your cabinet and head toward the sink to pour it out. — Sarah Lyon, The Spruce, 25 Jan. 2026 The mixture, also known as purple drank, sizzurp, or dirty sprite, usually contains prescription-strength cough syrup that usually contains codeine or promethazine and a soft drink. — Dan Raby, CBS News, 27 Mar. 2026 See All Example Sentences for cough syrup

Word History

First Known Use

1808, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of cough syrup was in 1808

Rhymes for cough syrup

See All Rhymes for cough syrup

Browse Nearby Words

coughroot
cough syrup
cough up
See all Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Cough syrup.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/cough%20syrup. Accessed 8 Jul. 2026.

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Kids Definition

cough syrup

noun
: any of various sweet liquids that contain medicine and are used to relieve coughing

Medical Definition

cough syrup

noun
: any of various sweet usually medicated liquids used to relieve coughing
Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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