Definition

In a way that shows you are very excited or out of breath, often because of running or being very active.

Example

She spoke breathlessly after running up the hill.

Conversation

Did you see the roller coaster we just rode?

Yes! I was breathlessly screaming the whole time!

It was so intense; I can't believe we survived that drop.

Right? I was holding on tight and laughing breathlessly afterwards.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Breathlessly → It is formed from "breath" (from Old English "bræð", meaning the air taken in or expelled from the lungs) and "-less" (meaning without) and the adverbial suffix "-ly" (meaning in a manner of). The word "breathlessly" means in a manner without breath, often implying a state of excitement or exhaustion.

Memory Tip

Think of being 'without breath' ('-less') and how that can happen when someone is very excited or tired. This helps you remember that 'breathlessly' describes doing something in a way that lacks breath.

Visually Confused Words