catch (one's) breath

catch (one's) breath

1. To resume or try to resume breathing normally after a physically taxing activity that results in heavy breathing. Can we stop for a minute? I need to catch my breath—I can't run as fast as you guys!
2. To stop breathing momentarily as a result of fear or surprise. I caught my breath when I saw the gruesome injuries Adam had sustained in the accident.
See also: breath, catch
Farlex Dictionary of Idioms.

catch one's breath

Fig. to struggle for normal breathing after strenuous activity. The jogger stopped to catch her breath. It took Jimmy a minute to catch his breath after being punched in the stomach.
See also: breath, catch
McGraw-Hill Dictionary of American Idioms and Phrasal Verbs.

catch one's breath

1. Resume normal breathing after physical exertion of some kind, as in These stairs are steep; wait a minute till I catch my breath. This phrase once meant the same as hold one's breath-that is, stop breathing momentarily-a usage no longer current. [Early 1800s]
2. Relax, take a rest, as in Events have been moving so fast I'd like to stop and catch my breath. [First half of 1900s]
See also: breath, catch
The American Heritage® Dictionary of Idioms by Christine Ammer.

catch your ˈbreath

stop breathing for a moment (because of surprise, fear, shock, etc.): The magnificent view made us catch our breath.
See also: breath, catch
Farlex Partner Idioms Dictionary

catch (one's) breath

To rest so as to be able to continue an activity.
See also: breath, catch
American Heritage® Dictionary of the English Language, Fifth Edition.
See also:
  • catch breath
  • catch one's breath
  • catch your breath
  • breathing spell
  • time to catch (one's) breath
  • time to catch breath
  • second wind, to get one's
  • pick (something) up where (one) left off
  • let (one) get on with (something)
  • let get on with