Ster"to*rous (?), a. [L. stertere to snore: cf. F. stertoreux.]
Characterized by a deep snoring, which accompaines 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.
© Webster 1913.