adjective
unable to breathe normally, often after exercise, fear, or strong excitement
I was breathless after running up the stairs.
Common phrases & grammar
breathless after exercise · leave someone breathless
American English
How to pronounce breathless
adjectiveB2
BREHTHluhs
/ˈbɹɛθ.ləs/
2 syllables · Stress the first syllable.
unable to breathe normally, often after exercise, fear, or strong excitement
What to listen for
In “breathless,” the second syllable is weak: /ˈbɹɛθ.ləs/. Say it quickly and without strong stress.
Meanings & examples
adjectiveless common
very excited or worried while waiting for something to happen
The audience waited breathlessly for the winner to be announced.
Common phrases & grammar
breathless with excitement · breathless anticipation