Definition of "breather" []

• One that breathes, especially in a specified manner: a shallow breather. (noun)
• Informal A short rest period: took a breather after skiing for two hours. (noun)
• Informal An activity, such as strenuous exercise, that causes difficult breathing. (noun)
• A small vent allowing the passage of gas or liquid to or from an enclosed area. (noun)

American Heritage(R) Dictionary of the English Language, Fifth Edition. Copyright (c) 2011 by Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Publishing Company. Published by Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Publishing Company. All rights reserved.

• "ON this general topic, I have to assume that retiring from the field of play for the call of nature or a breather is acceptable, but doing so for a snack is not."
• ""I take what you call a breather," answered the man stolidly."
• "That has left investors wondering if what is happening is a short-term breather in growth or the start of something more serious."