hyperventilation

American  

[hahy-per-ven-tl-ey-shuhn] / ˌhaɪ pərˌvɛn tlˈeɪ ʃən /

noun

1. excessively rapid and deep breathing.

2. a condition characterized by abnormally prolonged and rapid breathing, resulting in decreased carbon dioxide levels and increased oxygen levels that produce faintness, tingling of the fingers and toes, and, if continued, alkalosis and loss of consciousness.

---

hyperventilation British  

/ ˌhaɪpəˌvɛntɪˈleɪʃən /

noun

1. an increase in the depth, duration, and rate of breathing, sometimes resulting in cramp and dizziness

---

Etymology

Origin of hyperventilation

First recorded in 1925–30; hyper- + ventilation

Compare meaning

How does hyperventilation compare to similar and commonly confused words? Explore the most common comparisons:

• tachypnea vs. hyperventilation
• hyperpnea vs. hyperventilation