hyperventilation

American  

[hahy-per-ven-tl-ey-shuhn] / ˌhaɪ pərˌvɛn tlˈeɪ ʃən /

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.

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hyperventilation British  

/ ˌhaɪpəˌvɛntɪˈleɪʃən /

noun

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

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Etymology

Origin of hyperventilation

First recorded in 1925–30; hyper- + ventilation

Compare meaning

How does hyperventilation compare to similar and commonly confused words? Explore the most common comparisons:

• tachypnea vs. hyperventilation
• hyperpnea vs. hyperventilation

Example Sentences

In some cases, they have attributed reported health-effects from fume exposure to factors including hyperventilation, jet lag, psychological stress, mass hysteria and malingering.

From The Wall Street Journal • Sep. 14, 2025

However, a study Havenith published last week in Communications Psychology found these altered states of consciousness achieved through high-ventilation breathwork were directly associated with reduced levels of carbon dioxide, presumably as a result of hyperventilation.

From Salon • Apr. 23, 2025

It can take up to 24 hours for victims to start showing signs of illness which include: nausea, vomiting and abdominal pain which can escalate into hyperventilation and breathing problems.

From BBC • Nov. 21, 2024

These brief losses of consciousness, whether brought by pain, fear, heat, hyperventilation or other causes, account for a significant portion of hospital emergency room visits.

From Science Daily • Nov. 1, 2023

She laughs, her throaty cry intermingling in a weird duet with minor hyperventilation.

From "Better Nate Than Ever" by Tim Federle