# catch one's breath

> English word · Verb

## Definitions
1. to take a break, or rest while doing a strenuous activity, so that one's breathing becomes easier
2. to take in a breath sharply and hold it, usually in reaction to a sudden shock, or surprise

## Source
Compiled from Wiktionary via kaikki.org (CC BY-SA). Data vintage: 2026-05-06.
Canonical page: https://plainspell.com/en/word/catch-one-s-breath