Pantingly: meaning, definitions and examples
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pantingly
[ ˈpæntɪŋli ]
describing breath
Pantingly describes an action done while panting, which typically indicates heavy breathing caused by exertion or excitement. It is often used in contexts where a character is struggling to breathe due to physical exhaustion or emotional distress.
Synonyms
Examples of usage
- She ran pantingly towards the finish line.
- The dog returned pantingly after chasing the ball.
- He spoke pantingly after climbing the stairs.
- The athlete finished the race pantingly, eager for water.
Etymology
The word 'pantingly' is derived from the verb 'pant,' which has its origins in the Middle English word 'panten,' meaning to breathe heavily or gasp. This, in turn, comes from the Old English 'pantian,' which is related to the word 'panne,' meaning to suffer or to be in a state of distress. The development of the term reflects the physical manifestation of breathlessness, usually associated with exertion, fear, or excitement. The suffix '-ly' transforms the verb 'pant' into an adverb, indicating the manner in which an action is performed. Thus, 'pantingly' conveys not just the action of panting, but also gives the reader insight into the emotional or physical state of the subject experiencing this heavy breath, possibly suggesting urgency or intense effort.