nádech

Nádech is a Czech noun meaning the act of drawing air into the lungs, i.e., a breath or the moment of inhaling. In Slovak, the corresponding noun is nádych, used with the same sense; exhalation is výdech in Czech and výdych in Slovak.

Etymology: The word comes from the verb dýchat (to breathe) and the noun dech (breath). The prefix na- indicates direction toward the inside, forming a noun that names the act of taking air in. Cognate forms appear in other Slavic languages, such as Polish wdech and Russian вдох (vdokh).

Physiology: In physiology, nádech refers to the inhalation phase of respiration, usually an active process driven by the contraction of the diaphragm and intercostal muscles. This expands the chest and allows air to flow into the lungs for gas exchange.

Usage and nuance: Nádech appears in medical, sports, and everyday language. In literature and poetry it can convey a pause, a moment of anticipation, or a deliberate intake of breath before action. In practice, controlled breathing often emphasizes slow, deep nádech to regulate pace and calm during exertion or meditation.

See also: respiration; breathing; nádych; výdech; výdych.