coughing

noun2

1. •
   A cough; the act of coughing.

   • The good signor's little address was received in a variety of ways: there were titterings and coughings, and there were also a few instances of noble and generous response to poor Leonard's action […] — 1855
2. •
   A repetitive vocalisation of a bird or other animal that resembles human coughing.