inhalation

[in-huh-ley-shuhn]

noun

1. an act or instance of inhaling.

2. an inhalant.

inhalation

1. The act of taking in breath. Inhalation results from the negative pressure in the lungs caused by contraction of the diaphragm, which causes it to move downwards and to expand the chest cavity. The resulting flow of air into the lungs restores a pressure equal to that of the atmosphere.

2. Also called inspiration

3. Compare exhalation

Word History and Origins

Origin of inhalation¹

First recorded in 1615–25; inhale + -ation

Example Sentences

Most of the survivors suffered burns and fracture injuries while trying to escape, while others had respiratory distress from smoke inhalation.

From BBC

All 14 went to the emergency room, where they spent about three hours in a hyperbaric oxygen chamber to combat the effects of smoke inhalation.

From BBC

Yet the EPA’s own website notes that short-term exposure to EtO by inhalation can cause adverse health effects including headaches, dizziness, nausea, fatigue, respiratory irritation, gastrointestinal distress and vomiting.

From Los Angeles Times

Official death counts often rely on easily identifiable causes, including burns and smoke inhalation.

From Los Angeles Times

There were no serious injuries, but some residents were treated for smoke inhalation.

From BBC

Related Words

• aroma 
• breath 
• fume 
• hint 
• odor 
• puff 
• scent