UNDER BREATH Meaning and
Definition
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Under breath is an idiomatic expression that refers to speaking or muttering in a very low volume or volume barely audible to others. It describes the act of whispering or murmuring something softly, often in a secretive or whispered manner. The term 'under breath' emphasizes the low, hushed nature of the speech, almost as if the words are being spoken under the person's breath, rather than vocally projecting them.
This phrase is typically used when someone wants to express their thoughts or opinions discreetly or when they are not willing to be overheard by others. The purpose of speaking under breath can vary, ranging from expressing frustration, annoyance, or anger, to making snide remarks or sarcastic comments about someone or something in an indirect manner. It is a way for individuals to voice their thoughts without drawing attention or without raising suspicions.
The act of speaking under breath can often be seen in situations where one person disagrees with another, but prefers to keep their opinions or objections to themselves. It can also be witnessed during conversations that require a level of privacy or secrecy, where individuals engage in whispered exchanges to communicate without attracting others' attention.
In summary, 'under breath' refers to speaking or muttering softly, often in a secretive manner, either due to the desire for privacy or to express thoughts indirectly, quietly enough to avoid being overheard.
Common Misspellings for UNDER BREATH
- underbreath
- underbeath
- ynder breath
- hnder breath
- jnder breath
- inder breath
- 8nder breath
- 7nder breath
- ubder breath
- umder breath
- ujder breath
- uhder breath
- unser breath
- unxer breath
- uncer breath
- unfer breath
- unrer breath
- uneer breath
- undwr breath
- undsr breath
Etymology of UNDER BREATH
The phrase "under breath" can be broken down into two parts: "under" and "breath".
- "Under" is a preposition that dates back to Old English, where it was spelled "under" or "undor". Its usage remained relatively consistent, referring to something located below or beneath something else.
- "Breath" comes from the Old English word "brǣð" which meant "odor, scent, exhalation, vapor". It has its roots in the Proto-Germanic word "*brēðan" which carried a similar meaning.
When combined, "under breath" refers to speaking softly or muttering something almost inaudibly, as if whispering. The phrase suggests that the person speaking wants to keep their words discreet or hidden, as if they were letting the words escape from beneath their breath.
Idioms with the word UNDER BREATH
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under breath
Muttering or speaking quietly so that only the speaker and few others can hear.
