headache

[hed-eyk]

noun

1. a pain located in the head, as over the eyes, at the temples, or at the base of the skull.

2. an annoying or bothersome person, situation, activity, etc.

headache

/ ˈhɛdˌeɪk /

noun

1. Technical name: cephalalgia. pain in the head, caused by dilation of cerebral arteries, muscle contraction, insufficient oxygen in the cerebral blood, reaction to drugs, etc

2. informal,  any cause of worry, difficulty, or annoyance

headache

1. Pain in the head, caused by stimulation of or pressure to any of various structures of the head, such as tissue covering the cranium, cranial nerves, or blood vessels. Headache can be a primary disorder, as in migraine or cluster headaches, or a common symptom associated with head injury or many illnesses such as acute infection, brain tumor or abscess, eye disorders such as glaucoma, dental disease, and hypertension.

2. See also cluster headache migraine

Word History and Origins

Origin of headache¹

before 1000; Middle English; Old English hēafodece. See head, ache

Example Sentences

These headaches would suggest that there is a niche for companies developing alternative ways of making iron and steel.

From BBC

“He was very convincing, and he has a charismatic quality as an actor. And I’m surprised he wanted to go into politics. Politics is nothing but headaches and critical decisions and agony.”

From Los Angeles Times

Excessive consumption is linked to headaches and sleep problems.

From BBC

Disillusionment with those parties perceived as part of the establishment, whatever that is and however people choose to define it, has been a headache first for the Conservatives and now for Labour.

From BBC

This is a potential headache for Sir Keir, as he battles to hold on to left-wing voters, many of whom had already deserted Labour for the Greens at the last election.

From BBC

Related Words

• dilemma 
• hassle 
• inconvenience 
• trouble 
• worry