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Breasting Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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breasting

[หˆbrษ›stษชล‹ ]

Definition

Context #1 | Verb

physical action

Breasting refers to the act of pushing or moving against something with one's chest. This term is often used in contexts such as swimming, where a swimmer performs a breaststroke, propelling themselves through water while utilizing their chest. Additionally, it can imply confronting obstacles or challenges head-on, as in 'breasting the winds' when facing strong winds. It is a dynamic term that encompasses the physicality of moving forward despite resistance.

Synonyms

confronting, pressing, pushing.

Examples of usage

  • She was breasting the waves as she swam.
  • The athlete was breasting towards the finish line.
  • He breathed heavily after breasting the hill.

Translations

To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.

Origin of 'breasting'

The term 'breasting' is derived from the root 'breast', which comes from Old English 'brฤ“ost', meaning 'the front part of the body between the neck and the belly'. The word has evolved in its usage over the centuries. Initially, it focused on the anatomical part of the body, but later it took on more figurative meanings, particularly in the context of physical action. The transition into an action verb form occurred as the idea of using one's chest as a tool for movement gained traction, especially in physical activities like swimming and sports. The phrase โ€˜breasting the wavesโ€™ became popular in the maritime and swimming lexicons, illustrating the visual imagery of facing the water head-on. Overall, 'breasting' reflects both physical exertion and the determination to overcome challenges.

Word Frequency Rank

Ranking #35,690, this word is encountered relatively rarely in everyday English. It might appear in literary works or specialized texts but isn't essential for general communication.