breathed

word · lemma: breathe

Definition

The past tense of 'breathe'; to have taken air into and out of the lungs. It can also mean to have paused or relaxed briefly.

Usage & Nuances

Modal, past simple form. Common with adverbs: 'breathed deeply', 'breathed heavily'. Can be literal (about air) or figurative ('she finally breathed a sigh of relief'). Only use for past actions; present is 'breathe'.

Example Sentences

She breathed quietly while she slept.

basic

The doctor asked if he had breathed normally.

basic

He breathed in the fresh mountain air.

basic

She finally breathed a sigh of relief after the exam was over.

natural

He breathed heavily after running up the stairs.

natural

Everyone breathed easier once the storm had passed.

natural