Retch \Retch\ (r[e^]ch or r[=e]ch; 277), v. i. [imp. & p. p.
{Retched} (r[e^]cht); p. pr. & vb. n. {Retching}.] [AS.
hr[ae]can to clear the throat, hawk, fr. hraca throat; akin
to G. rachen, and perhaps to E. rack neck.]
To make an effort to vomit; to strain, as in vomiting.
[Written also {reach}.]
[1913 Webster]
Beloved Julia, hear me still beseeching!
(Here he grew inarticulate with retching.) --Byron.
[1913 Webster]