catching breath

VERB

take a short break

Synonyms

WEAK

breathe ease off mellow out recuperate relax rest sit down slow down stop for a breath take a break take ten wind down

Example Sentences

Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.

"It's the only thing I can see to do," replied Ann, with catching breath.

From From the Valley of the Missing by White, Grace Miller

Meanwhile, like wrestlers who after a long chase are to seize each other by the bodies, they lay opposite each other, catching breath in their panting throats, and resting.

From The Deluge, Vol. II. (of 2) An Historical Novel of Poland, Sweden, and Russia. by Sienkiewicz, Henryk

He did not find words at once; but his nostrils quivered while he was catching breath, which apparently failed in his breast.

From The Deluge, Vol. II. (of 2) An Historical Novel of Poland, Sweden, and Russia. by Sienkiewicz, Henryk

There was no answer; only the woman's catching breath as she struggled with her sobs.

From Tarrano the Conqueror by Cummings, Ray

With a catching breath Eleanor turned and threw her arm round the girl's neck.

From Eleanor by Ward, Humphry, Mrs.