Breath Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
๐จ
breath
[brษฮธ ]
Definitions
taking in air
The process of taking air into the lungs and then expelling it, especially as a regular physiological process.
Synonyms
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| breath |
Simple, singular act of air being taken in or expelled from the lungs. Used often in everyday conversations.
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| inhale |
The act of breathing in air into the lungs. Used when specifying the action of taking in air, often in controlled or detailed situations.
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| exhale |
The act of breathing out air from the lungs. Often used in more detailed or specific contexts, like yoga or meditation.
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| respiration |
A more scientific or medical term for the overall process of breathing, including both inhaling and exhaling.
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Examples of usage
- She took a deep breath before jumping into the cold water.
- His breath was visible in the cold winter air.
a slight breeze
A slight movement of air, especially a light current indoors.
Synonyms
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| breath |
Used when talking about the air taken into or expelled from the lungs. Often associated with breathing, relaxation, or the freshness of the air.
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| breeze |
Used to describe a light and gentle wind. Often connotes a pleasant or refreshing feeling.
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| draft |
Generally refers to a current of cool air moving through an enclosed space. Can also mean an initial version of a written document, but in this context, it's about air movement.
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| gust |
Used to describe a sudden, strong burst of wind. It usually carries a more intense or forceful connotation compared to a breeze.
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Examples of usage
- The gentle breath of wind rustled the leaves.
- There was a breath of fresh air in the stuffy room.
to take air into the lungs and then expel it
To draw air into the lungs, and then expel it; to inhale and exhale.
Synonyms
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| breath |
Generally refers to the act of breathing or a single cycle of inhalation and exhalation. It can be used in both everyday and specific contexts such as sports, meditation, or moments of surprise.
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| inhale |
Used specifically when referring to the act of breathing in. It is often used in medical, exercise, or instructional contexts.
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| exhale |
Used specifically when referring to the act of breathing out. Common in contexts related to relaxation, exercises like yoga, or instructions for breathing techniques.
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| respire |
A more formal or scientific term for the act of breathing. Typically used in medical, biological, or technical contexts.
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Examples of usage
- He paused to breath deeply after running up the stairs.
- She could see her breath as she exhaled in the cold.
Translations
To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.
Interesting Facts
Science
- Breathing involves the respiratory system, which includes the lungs, trachea, and diaphragm.
- Humans take about 20,000 breaths each day, highlighting the continuous processing of oxygen.
- The oxygen we breathe is crucial for cellular respiration, which helps our bodies produce energy.
Literature
- Many poets use breath as a symbol of life, underscoring its importance in various cultures.
- In literature, the phrase 'last breath' often signifies the end of life, evoking a deep emotional response.
- Works like 'Breath' by Tim Winton explore themes of existence and connection through the concept of breathing.
Cultural Significance
- In many cultures, controlling breath is connected to meditation and mindfulness practices, promoting relaxation.
- Breathing techniques are integral to disciplines like yoga, emphasizing the union of body and mind.
- Different cultures have unique rituals involving breath, such as using it to symbolically 'purify' or 'revive' spirits.
Origin of 'breath'
Main points about word origin
- The word traces back to Old English 'brวฃth', which means 'the act of breathing'.
- Related words in other languages share a common root; for instance, Latin 'spฤซrฤre' means 'to breathe'.
- Breath has connections to ancient notions of life and spirit, as in the Latin 'spiritus', meaning both breath and soul.
The word 'breath' originated from the Old English word 'brรฆรฐ' meaning 'scent, odor, exhalation, vapor'. Over time, it evolved to refer to the action of taking in and expelling air. The concept of breath has been associated with life, vitality, and spirituality in various cultures and religions throughout history.
See also: breathability, breathable, breathe, breathing, breathtaking, breathwork.