Word
breathable
Phoneticsbreath·able
UK/bɹˈiːðəbəl/
Fashion
Definition
adj. allowing air to pass through easily. You use this to describe fabrics that let your skin stay cool or masks that do not make you feel stuffy.
adj. permitting the passage of air or gas through a material. Often used to describe textiles, masks, or environmental conditions.
Examples
“This cotton shirt is very breathable and comfortable in the summer.”
“The new surgical mask is designed to be more breathable while still providing a high level of filtration.”
“Engineers are developing a new type of breathable concrete that allows moisture to escape, preventing the structural decay caused by trapped humidity in coastal environments.”
Examples
simple
“This cotton shirt is very breathable and comfortable in the summer.”
contextual
“The new surgical mask is designed to be more breathable while still providing a high level of filtration.”
complex
“Engineers are developing a new type of breathable concrete that allows moisture to escape, preventing the structural decay caused by trapped humidity in coastal environments.”
Real-World Examples
“T hat certain physical conditions are necessary for the development of life has been recognised for a long time: distance from the sun, the presence of water, a breathable atmosphere.” “Also note: the covers are typically pretty breathable, so they likely will not repel liquids.” “The recycled polyester fabric manages to sweat really well, and I love how breathable it is.” Etymology
From breathe + -able.
Etymology adapted from Wiktionary, available under CC BY-SA 4.0.
Domain
- Exam level
- CambridgeCambridgeCambridge English QualificationsThe exam suite from Cambridge University Press & Assessment, from A1 Movers up to C2 Proficiency. The benchmark names double as CEFR labels.B2 FirstIELTSIELTSInternational English Language Testing SystemThe 0–9 band test co-owned by the British Council, IDP, and Cambridge. Used for university entry, work, and migration.5.5–6.5TOEFL iBTTOEFL iBTTest of English as a Foreign Language, Internet-Based TestETS's academic English test, the standard route for US university admissions. Scored 0–120, with a 1–6 scale since 2026.1–6 scale: 4.0–4.572–94TOEICTOEICTest of English for International CommunicationETS's workplace English test, big in Japan and Korea. Listening & Reading scores 10–990 and tops out at C1.785–944
- Frequency
- Occasional
- Level
- B2 · Upper Intermediate
- Updated
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QR code
englishreference.com/q/breathable