Breathy - Meaning, Definition & English Examples
Breathy describes a voice or sound that is soft, hushed, or filled with audible exhales, often suggesting intimacy, effort, or lack of vocal clarity. It is commonly used in singing or speaking.
Definition:
Characterized by audible or heavy breathing, often in speech or singing.
Synonyms:
husky, whispery, throaty, panting
Part of Speech:
adjective
Antonyms:
silent, quiet
Common Collocations:
breathy voice, breathy laugh, breathy whisper, breathy tone
Derivatives:
breathily, breathiness
Usage Tips:
Use "breathy" to describe sounds where breathing is noticeably audible, like whispering or singing softly.
Common Phrases:
breathy voice, breathy laugh, breathy whisper
Etymology:
Derived from "breath," from Old English "brǣþ," meaning odor or vapor; later associated with respiration.
Examples:
- 1. Her voice was soft and breathy during the song.
- 2. He answered in a low, breathy whisper to avoid waking the baby.
- 3. The singer's breathy tone added intimacy to the performance.
- 4. She let out a breathy laugh after the joke.