breathe

breathe · verb

imported

Definitions

verb

  1. 1.

    To take air into the lungs and then expel it.

  2. 2.

    To be alive.

  3. 3.

    To say something quietly or softly.

  4. 4.

    To allow air to pass through.

  5. 5.

    To give an impression of.

  6. 6.

    To pause and rest.

Phrases & expressions

  • •
    breathe easy — to relax after anxiety
  • •
    breathe down someone's neck — to watch someone closely and pressingly
  • •
    breathe life into — to invigorate or revitalize
  • •
    breathe a sigh of relief — to feel relieved
  • •
    not breathe a word — to keep something secret
  • •
    room to breathe — space or freedom

Related words

Antonyms: asphyxiate, suffocate
See also: breath, breathing, exhale, inhale
Synonyms: exhale, inhale, respire

Etymology

From Middle English "brethen," derived from "breth" (breath). The spelling change reflects the pronunciation of the voiced "th" sound.