breathlessly

Breathlessly is an adverb describing a state of being out of breath, often due to exertion, excitement, or fear. It can also be used to describe speaking or acting in a rapid, agitated manner, as if one has been running. This adverb conveys a sense of urgency or intense emotion.

In literature and common speech, "breathlessly" often modifies verbs like "said," "whispered," "ran," or "waited." For example, a character might "breathlessly describe their narrow escape" or "breathlessly await the news." The word evokes a physical and emotional response, suggesting that the subject's breathing is labored and their composure is strained.

The term is derived from the adjective "breathless," which means having lost one's breath. The adverbial form "breathlessly" emphasizes the manner in which an action is performed or a statement is made. It suggests an inability to catch one's breath, a state of being overcome by something, or a hurried, almost gasping delivery. It is frequently employed to amplify the dramatic impact of a narrative.