breathe

Definition

To draw air into (inhale), and expel air from (exhale), the lungs in order to extract oxygen and excrete waste gases.

Etymology

From Middle English brethen (“to breathe, blow, exhale, odour”), derived from Middle English breth (“breath”). Eclipsed Middle English ethien and orðiæn, from Old English ēþian and orþian (“to breathe”); as well as Middle English anden, onden, from Old Norse anda (“to breathe”). More at breath.

Example Sentences

• "Fish have gills so they can breathe underwater."
• "While life as we know it depends on oxygen, scientists have speculated that alien life forms might breathe chlorine or methane."
• "I will not allow it, as long as I still breathe."

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