# wheezing

/ˈhwizɪŋ/ (US) · /wˈiːzɪŋ/ (UK) · CEFR B2 · Verb

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/wheezing
Updated: 2026-05-20

## Definition

to make a loud, high-pitched sound when you breathe, usually because of a cold or an asthma attack.

For teachers: to produce a high-pitched, whistling sound during respiration, typically caused by the narrowing of the airways. Often used to describe the physical manifestation of respiratory distress.

## Examples

- He was wheezing heavily after the race.
- The child began wheezing as soon as she stepped outside into the cold winter air.
- The patient's wheezing intensified during the night, prompting the nurse to administer a bronchodilator to ease the constriction in his airways.

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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.