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breathable

American  
[bree-thuh-buhl] / ˈbri ðə bəl /

adjective

  1. able or fit to be breathed: breathe.

    filters to make the air more breathable.

  2. allowing the passage of air and moisture.

    a breathable fabric.


breathable British  
/ ˈbriːðəbəl /

adjective

  1. (of air) fit to be breathed

  2. (of a material) allowing air to pass through so that perspiration can evaporate

"Collins English Dictionary — Complete & Unabridged" 2012 Digital Edition © William Collins Sons & Co. Ltd. 1979, 1986 © HarperCollins Publishers 1998, 2000, 2003, 2005, 2006, 2007, 2009, 2012

Other Word Forms

  • breathability noun
  • breathableness noun
  • unbreathable adjective

Etymology

Origin of breathable

First recorded in 1725–35; breathe + -able

Example Sentences

Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.

Lycra is lightweight, breathable, and can expand and snap back indefinitely.

From The Wall Street Journal

"Hijabs are made from light, breathable fabric," he said.

From BBC

The breathable mesh fabric is stain- and tear-resistant and, most importantly, dries quickly, so you won’t be sitting on a wet chair.

From Salon

The air was frigid, but breathable.

From Literature

Each piece is more breathable than ever and is meant to symbolize a connection to the natural world.

From Los Angeles Times