# breathe a word

idiom

Source: https://englishreference.com/idiom/breathe-a-word
Updated: 2026-08-10

## Meaning

To divulge even part of a secret (usually used with a negative).

## Examples

- Please do not breathe a word about the surprise party.
- She promised not to breathe a word to anyone about the secret project we are working on.
- Although he knew the truth about the scandal, he dared not breathe a word to the press for fear of losing his career.

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From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.