lélegezni

Lélegezni is a Hungarian verb meaning to breathe—the act of inhaling and exhaling air, i.e., respiration. It is used for both natural breathing and for intentional breathing or breathing techniques.

Etymology and related forms: Lélegezni is formed from the noun lélegzet (breath) with the infinitive suffix -ni. Related terms include légzés (breathing, respiration), belélegzés (inhalation) and kilélegzés (exhalation).

Physiology and usage: Breathing involves the lungs, the diaphragm and intercostal muscles. During inhalation air is drawn into the lungs, and during exhalation air rich in carbon dioxide is expelled. The breathing rate and depth are regulated by the brainstem, responding to chemical signals that monitor blood gases; gas exchange occurs in the alveoli. In everyday language, lélegezni can describe normal respiration, distress or fatigue, and also deliberate controlled breathing in activities like singing, meditation or sports. The term appears across medical texts, textbooks and literature.

See also: légzés, belélegzés, kilélegzés.