coma

word

/ˈkoʊmə/
KOH-muh
/kˈəʊmɐ/
KOH-muh

Definition

A coma is a state of deep unconsciousness in which a person is alive but does not wake up or respond normally. It is usually caused by serious illness, injury, or damage to the brain.

Usage & Nuances

This is a medical term and is serious in tone. Common patterns are 'be in a coma', 'fall into a coma', and 'come out of a coma'. Do not confuse it with ordinary sleep or with 'comma', the punctuation mark.

Example Sentences

After the accident, he was in a coma for two days.

basic

The doctor said she fell into a coma last night.

basic

His family visited him every day while he was in a coma.

basic

She was in a coma for weeks, and then suddenly opened her eyes.

natural

The news said the driver is still in a coma, but his condition is stable.

natural

Everyone was relieved when he finally came out of the coma.

natural