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The act of breathing out air. During exhalation, the diaphragm relaxes and moves upward, causing compression of the lungs and an outward flow of air.
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Also called expiration
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Compare inhalation
Etymology
Origin of exhalation
1350–1400; Middle English exalacion < Latin exhālātiōn- (stem of exhālātiō ). See exhale, -ation
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Vocabulary lists containing exhalation
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.
Their vocal cords did not close, and their abdominal muscles did not contract, as they normally do during exhalation for vocalization.
From Science Daily ● Mar. 7, 2024
While a brick home can resist the powerful exhalation of a wolf, it’s no match for wind-driven rain served up by a wicked storm.
From Seattle Times ● Feb. 12, 2024
The fall of the hammer at 74 million pounds broke the tension, triggering a collective exhalation in the room and a round of applause.
From Reuters ● Jun. 27, 2023
The beginning of a new “Succession” season feels like an exhalation, a reprieve.
From New York Times ● Mar. 25, 2023
When it was opened by the giant, the chest gave off a glacial exhalation.
From "One Hundred Years of Solitude" by Gabriel Garcia Marquez
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Idioms from The American Heritage® Idioms Dictionary copyright © 2002, 2001, 1995 by Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Publishing Company. Published by Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Publishing Company.
