whooping cough

Definition of whooping cough

whooping cough (HWOOP-ing kof): A serious bacterial infection of the lungs and breathing tubes that spreads easily. Whooping cough begins like a cold, but develops into severe coughing and gasping for air. Long spells of coughing may cause vomiting, and broken blood vessels in the eyes and on the skin. Also called pertussis.

Source: NCI Dictionary of Cancer Terms