The word "Rebreathe" is spelled with the prefix "re-" attached to the verb "breathe". It is pronounced as /riːˈbriːð/, with the stress on the second syllable. The first syllable "ree" is pronounced as "ree", which sounds like the word "free". The second syllable "breathe" is pronounced as "bree-th", like the word "breathe" but with the "th" sound at the end. "Rebreathe" means to inhale the air that has already been exhaled to increase the amount of oxygen in the lungs.
Rebreathe (verb) refers to the action or process of inhaling exhaled air or breath that has previously been inhaled, in order to prolong the availability of oxygen in an enclosed system, such as a breathing apparatus or a closed environment. The term typically pertains to situations where the individual re-inhales a portion of their own respiratory gases to conserve oxygen and extend the duration of gas supply.
In rebreathing, the exhaled air is usually passed through a filtering or scrubbing system, which removes carbon dioxide and other contaminants, including moisture, before reintroducing it into the apparatus or closed system. By recycling and reusing a portion of their respiratory gases, individuals are able to maintain a more sustainable supply of breathable air, particularly in environments where oxygen is limited or unavailable.
This process is commonly employed in underwater diving, where rebreathing equipment, such as closed-circuit rebreathers, allow divers to remain submerged for extended periods. It is also utilized in certain medical applications, such as anesthesia administration, where rebreathing systems are employed to conserve and recycle respiratory gases during surgery, reducing the amount of fresh gases required.
The practice of rebreathing, when properly managed and controlled, can effectively enhance safety and increase the duration of oxygen supply in various contexts, enabling individuals to operate in environments that would otherwise be challenging or impossible to endure without a constant source of fresh air.
To breathe again.
Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.
The word "rebreathe" is a verb that refers to the act of inhaling one's own exhaled breath, typically facilitated by a rebreather apparatus. The etymology of "rebreathe" can be broken down as follows:
1. The prefix "re-" in English is derived from the Latin prefix "re-", which typically signifies repetition or completion.
2. The word "breathe" is derived from the Old English word "bréaðian", which means "to breathe" or "to respire".
Therefore, the etymology of "rebreathe" suggests a repetitive or completed process of breathing, emphasizing the act of inhaling one's own exhaled breath.