hyperventilation

[ hahy-per-ven-tl-ey-shuhn ]

noun

1. excessively rapid and deep breathing.
2. a condition characterized by abnormally prolonged and rapid breathing, resulting in decreased carbon dioxide levels and increased oxygen levels that produce faintness, tingling of the fingers and toes, and, if continued, alkalosis and loss of consciousness.

hyperventilation

/ ˌhaɪpəˌvɛntɪˈleɪʃən /

noun

1. an increase in the depth, duration, and rate of breathing, sometimes resulting in cramp and dizziness

Word History and Origins

Origin of hyperventilation¹

First recorded in 1925–30; hyper- + ventilation