‖n. [ F. râle. Cf. Rail the bird. ] (Med.) An adventitious sound, usually of morbid origin, accompanying the normal respiratory sounds. See Rhonchus. [ 1913 Webster ]
☞ Various kinds are distinguished by pathologists; differing in intensity, as loud and small; in quality, as moist, dry, clicking, whistling, and sonorous; and in origin, as tracheal, pulmonary, and pleural. [ 1913 Webster ]