n.
- air taken into or expelled from the lungs.
▸an inhalation or exhalation of air from the lungs.
- a slight movement of air.
- a hint or suggestion:
he avoided the slightest breath of scandal.
Phrase
- breath of fresh air
a refreshing change. - catch one's breath
- cease breathing momentarily in surprise or fear.
- rest after exercise to restore normal breathing.
- draw breath
breathe in. - hold one's breath
cease breathing temporarily. - out of breath
gasping for air, typically after exercise. - take someone's breath away
astonish someone with awed respect or delight. - under
(or below)
one's breath
in a very quiet voice. - waste one's breath
talk or give advice without effect.
Etymology
OE bræth ‘smell, scent’, of Gmc origin; rel. to brood.