The term can be spelled in two ways, both pronounced the same:
This is the original form. It is onomatopoeic , meaning the word is intended to mimic the sound of the action itself. It first appeared in the 1500s. The term can be spelled in two ways,
A Sudden Catch of Breath: The Word That Spells Itself Twice A Sudden Catch of Breath: The Word That
While "Hotot" is often used colloquially or in specific animal contexts (like the rabbit breed known for unique "eyeliner" markings), sudden noisy stops in breathing are medically categorized by the following terms: involuntary catch in the throat
We’ve all experienced it: a sharp, involuntary catch in the throat, a sudden noisy stopping of the breath. Often it’s a precursor to a sneeze, a reaction to a strong smell, or a spasm brought on by a cold drink. But the word for this curious bodily event has a unique distinction—it can be spelt in two perfectly acceptable ways, and both contain the letters H, O, and T, though not consecutively.