1. the state of being unable to breathe normally or easily; shortness of breath
Usage: often caused by physical exertion, illness, or anxiety
2. a state of excitement or anticipation so intense that one feels unable to breathe
Usage: figurative use

Examples

• After running up the stairs, she felt a sudden breathlessness.
• The patient complained of breathlessness during physical activity.
• He experienced breathlessness as he waited for the exam results.
• Breathlessness can be a symptom of asthma or heart problems.
• The breathlessness of the moment made it hard to speak.
• She gasped with breathlessness after the intense workout.