This shows grade level based on the word's complexity.
rough breathing
Save This Word!
This shows grade level based on the word's complexity.
noun
the symbol (ʿ) used in the writing of Greek to indicate aspiration of the initial vowel or of the ρ (rho) over which it is placed.
the aspirated sound indicated by this mark.
QUIZ
WILL YOU SAIL OR STUMBLE ON THESE GRAMMAR QUESTIONS?
Smoothly step over to these common grammar mistakes that trip many people up. Good luck!
Question 1 of 7
Fill in the blank: I can’t figure out _____ gave me this gift.
Compare smooth breathing.
Origin of rough breathing
1740–50; translation of Latin spiritus asper
Words nearby rough breathing
roughage, rough-and-ready, rough-and-tumble, roughback, rough bluegrass, rough breathing, roughcast, rough collie, rough cut, rough diamond, rough-dry
Dictionary.com Unabridged
Based on the Random House Unabridged Dictionary, © Random House, Inc. 2023
How to use rough breathing in a sentence
British Dictionary definitions for rough breathing
rough breathing
noun
(in Greek) the sign (῾) placed over an initial letter, or a second letter if the word begins with a diphthong, indicating that (in ancient Greek) it was pronounced with an hCompare smooth breathing
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