Ster″to‐rous (stẽr″tō̍‐rŭs), a. [L. stertere to snore: cf. F. stertoreux.] Characterized by a deep snoring, which accompanies inspiration in some diseases, especially apoplexy; hence, hoarsely breathing; snoring.
Burning, stertorous breath that hurt her cheek. Mrs. Browning.
The day has ebbed away, and it is night in his room, before his stertorous breathing lulls. Dickens.