postnasal drip

American  

noun

1. a trickling of mucus onto the pharyngeal surface from the posterior portion of the nasal cavity, usually caused by a cold or allergy.

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postnasal drip British  

/ pəʊstˈneɪzəl /

noun

1. med a mucus secretion from the rear part of the nasal cavity into the nasopharynx, usually as the result of a cold or an allergy

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Etymology

Origin of postnasal drip

First recorded in 1945–50

Example Sentences

Her son, meanwhile, was congested and had postnasal drip.

From Seattle Times • Oct. 4, 2021

Reflux can also affect the respiratory tract, resulting in hoarseness, wheezing, postnasal drip, cough or asthma.

From New York Times • Aug. 23, 2021

One question needed no translation, having accompanied the Japanese sensation like a stubborn postnasal drip since his Masters victory in April: Does he feel any pressure?

From Los Angeles Times • Jul. 29, 2021

Froum suggests using one to moisturize your nasal passage, while clearing away postnasal drip that may be increasing the amount of bacteria in your mouth.

From Slate • Jul. 6, 2018

People who have mucus in their throats typically call it postnasal drip, which suggests the source is above — in the nose and upper airways.

From Washington Post • Nov. 10, 2017