breather

noun

breath·​er ˈbrē-t͟hər 

1

: one that breathes

2

: a break in activity for rest or relief

3

: a small vent in an otherwise airtight enclosure

Synonyms

• break
• breath
• interruption
• lull
• pause
• recess

Examples of breather in a Sentence

He decided to give them a breather.

took a breather from the seemingly endless task of sorting through years of stuff stored in the attic

Recent Examples on the Web

Heron Preston is using his latest project to take a breather from the rigorous demands of the fashion industry. —Layla Ilchi, WWD, 12 Dec. 2024

Upon arrival, guests were greeted with live Moroccan drummers, belly dancers, and fire breathers—a full sensory experience that captured the spirit of Marrakech. —Kimberly Wilson, Essence, 1 Oct. 2024

Stocks remain near all-time-high levels, despite Wall Street taking a breather from a strong year-end rally in the wake of the presidential election. —Brian Evans, CNBC, 11 Dec. 2024

The drama is almost inevitable right now, so take a breather before the next act. —Valerie Mesa, People.com, 10 Dec. 2024

Word History

First Known Use

1609, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Kids Definition

breather

noun

breath·​er ˈbrē-t͟hər 

1

: one that breathes

2

: a pause for rest : break

Medical Definition

breather

noun

breath·​er ˈbrē-t͟hər 

: one that breathes usually in a specified way see mouth breather