breathtaking

adjective

breath·​tak·​ing ˈbreth-ˌtā-kiŋ 

1

: causing one to breathe rapidly or with difficulty : making one out of breath

a breathtaking pain in her side

2

a

: exciting, thrilling

a breathtaking race

b

: very great : astonishing

his breathtaking ignorance

breathtakingly

ˈbreth-ˌtā-kiŋ-lē 

adverb

Synonyms

• charged
• electric
• electrifying
• exciting
• exhilarating
• exhilarative
• galvanic
• galvanizing
• hair-raising
• heart-stopping
• inspiring
• intoxicating
• kicky
• mind-bending
• mind-blowing
• mind-boggling
• rip-roaring
• rousing
• stimulating
• stirring
• thrilling

Examples of breathtaking in a Sentence

The train raced past with breathtaking speed.

They gave a breathtaking performance.

The view of the mountains was breathtaking.

a scene of breathtaking beauty

The scope of the error is breathtaking.

Recent Examples on the Web

Accessible only by a scenic hike or kayak, this pristine spot offers a tranquil retreat with breathtaking views. —Melissa Noel, Essence, 15 Jan. 2025

Los Angeles is a place of breathtaking beauty, and some people rely on the natural environment for emotional support. —Brittney Melton, NPR, 14 Jan. 2025

Norway With breathtaking views and relaxing spas, Norway is a great destination for families. —Annabelle Canela, Parents, 14 Jan. 2025

The resort’s mountain lodges are made of spruce logs and accented by stone fireplaces, glittering chandeliers, and breathtaking views of the Wasatch Range. —Lydia Mansel, Travel + Leisure, 13 Jan. 2025

Word History

First Known Use

1840, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Kids Definition

breathtaking

adjective

breath·​tak·​ing ˈbreth-ˌtā-kiŋ 

1

: making one out of breath

breathtaking speed

2

: exciting, thrilling

breathtaking beauty

breathtakingly

-kiŋ-lē 

adverb