What's the word for...?

Find that expression on the tip of your tongue

|

sneeze reflex inhibition

The temporary cessation or suppression of the sneeze reflex, often leading to the sensation of an impending sneeze that does not materialize.

Examples:

I felt a sneeze coming on, but just as quickly it faded away; it’s like the sneeze reflex inhibition kicked in.
That awkward moment when you're in a quiet room and a sneeze almost bursts forth, but then it just disappears into thin air.

phantom sneeze

The sensation of needing to sneeze but not being able to, as if the sneeze is 'phantom' or nonexistent.

Examples:

I experienced a phantom sneeze while in the middle of a conversation, leaving me feeling oddly unsatisfied.
After a long tickle in my nose, I was left with nothing but a phantom sneeze, as it never really happened.

sneeze tease

An informal term used to describe the phenomenon when one feels the urge to sneeze, but ultimately does not.

Examples:

He had a classic sneeze tease when we were out at dinner; it seemed like he would never actually sneeze.
That pollen in the air gave me a major sneeze tease, but alas, not a single sneeze came out.