inhale

Inhale is a verb meaning to draw air, gas, or vapor into the lungs through the nose or mouth. The word comes from Latin inhalare, from in- meaning "in" and halare meaning "to breathe." Inhalation is the phase of respiration during which air enters the thoracic cavity.

Physiology: Inhalation occurs when the diaphragm contracts and moves downward, the intercostal muscles raise the rib cage, and the chest cavity expands. This creates negative pressure that pulls air into the airways. In the lungs, oxygen passes through the alveolar walls into the blood, and carbon dioxide moves from the blood to the air to be exhaled.

Inhalation in medicine: Inhalation is used to deliver medications directly to the lungs. Common devices include metered-dose inhalers, dry powder inhalers, and nebulizers. Proper technique and device choice influence dose delivery and efficacy. Inhaled anesthetics are volatile substances delivered via the respiratory tract under anesthesia.

Exposure and safety: Inhalation can involve breathing environmental pollutants, smoke, fumes, or aerosolized chemicals. Acute exposure can irritate the airways, while chronic exposure is associated with respiratory diseases. Protective measures include ventilation, filtration, and appropriate personal protective equipment.

Other contexts: Some breathing practices, such as those in certain exercise and mindfulness traditions, emphasize deliberate inhalation as part of controlled breathing routines.