breath
UK: brɛθ | US: brɛθ
n. the air taken into or expelled from the lungs
n. a slight movement of air (e.g., a breeze)
n. a brief moment or pause (e.g., "a breath of silence")
The word "breath" traces back to Old English brǣþ, meaning "odor, scent, exhalation," derived from Proto-Germanic brēþ- ("vapor, smell"). Over time, its meaning narrowed to focus on the act of breathing, reflecting the essential connection between breath and life. The word's simplicity and ancient roots make it non-splittable under the morpheme integrity rule.
She took a deep breath before diving into the water.
The cold morning air filled his lungs with every breath.
A faint breath of wind rustled the leaves.
Hold your breath for ten seconds during the exercise.
The news left them all without a breath to spare.