Source : Webster's Revised Unabridged Dictionary (1913)

Breath \Breath\ (br[e^]th), n. [OE. breth, breeth, AS.
   br[=ae][eth] odor, scent, breath; cf. OHG. br[=a]dam steam,
   vapor, breath, G. brodem, and possibly E. {Brawn}, and
   {Breed}.]
   1. The air inhaled and exhaled in respiration; air which, in
      the process of respiration, has parted with oxygen and has
      received carbonic acid, aqueous vapor, warmth, etc.

            Melted as breath into the wind.       --Shak.

   2. The act of breathing naturally or freely; the power or
      capacity to breathe freely; as, I am out of breath.

   3. The power of respiration, and hence, life. --Hood.

            Thou takest away their breath, they die. --Ps. civ.
                                                  29.

   4. Time to breathe; respite; pause.

            Give me some breath, some little pause. --Shak.

   5. A single respiration, or the time of making it; a single
      act; an instant.

            He smiles and he frowns in a breath.  --Dryden.

   6. Fig.: That which gives or strengthens life.

            The earthquake voice of victory, To thee the breath
            of life.                              --Byron.

   7. A single word; the slightest effort; a trifle.

            A breath can make them, as a breath has made.
                                                  --Goldsmith.

   8. A very slight breeze; air in gentle motion.

            Calm and unruffled as a summer's sea, when not a
            breath of wind flies o'er its surface. --Addison.

   9. Fragrance; exhalation; odor; perfume. --Tennison.

            The breath of flowers.                --Bacon.

   10. Gentle exercise, causing a quicker respiration.

             An after dinner's breath.            --Shak.

   {Out of breath}, breathless, exhausted; breathing with
      difficulty.

   {Under one's breath}, in low tones.