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.

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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

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Other Word Forms

• breathability noun
• breathableness noun
• unbreathable adjective

Etymology

Origin of breathable

First recorded in 1725–35; breathe + -able

Example Sentences

“That’s why I recommend breathable fabrics, compression socks if you’re prone to swelling, and always layers,” he said.

From MarketWatch • Feb. 26, 2026

The Japanese accomplish subtle scenting with nioi-bukuro, breathable sachets.

From The Wall Street Journal • Feb. 14, 2026

On top of that, there is constant cosmic radiation and no breathable air.

From Science Daily • Jan. 6, 2026

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 • Nov. 20, 2025

The air was thin, but there was enough oxygen to be breathable.

From "Cosmos" by Carl Sagan