breathing

SayBREE-thingUS/ˈbɹiðɪŋ/UK/ˈbɹiːðɪŋ/

Pluralbreathings (some meanings)

6 meanings of breathing

1
noununcountable
Gerund of breathe. It names the act of taking air in and out.
Her breathing slowed as she drifted off to sleep.
Deep breathing helps many people feel calmer.
Note
2
verb
Present participle of breathe. Use it for breathing that is happening right now.
The baby is breathing softly in her crib.
He was breathing hard after the long climb.
Note
3
nouncountable
A small mark written above a letter in Greek to show an 'h' sound or its absence.
Like a tiny sign over a letter that tells you how to say it.
The teacher showed how a breathing changes the way a Greek word is read aloud.
Each vowel at the start of these words needs a breathing.
Note
4
nouncountable
A soft, gentle influence that seems to move or inspire someone.
Like a soft breeze that stirs the air without anyone seeing it.
A breathing of hope spread through the crowd as the music started.
She felt a breathing of courage before she stepped onto the stage.
Similarstirring, whisper, influence
Note
5
nouncountable
A quiet, deep wish or a silent prayer said in the heart.
Like making a wish in your heart without saying it out loud.
Each night she sent up a quiet breathing for her family's safety.
His secret breathing was always for peace at home.
Similarlonging, aspiration, yearning, prayer, sigh
Note

Less common meaning

6
nounarchaiccountable
A short break that gives you time to catch your breath, or any pause.
Like a quick rest stop on a long walk.
We took a short breathing before climbing the rest of the hill.
Give me a breathing, and then we can keep going.
Note

Practice

Can you tell the meanings of breathing apart? Answer 3 quick questions from this page, or write your own sentence and AI will check it.

Origin

It comes from the word "breathe" plus the ending "-ing."