second wind

[ wind ]

noun

1. the return of ease in breathing after exhaustion caused by continued physical exertion, as in running.
2. the energy for a renewed effort to continue an undertaking.

second wind

/ wɪnd /

noun

1. the return of the ability to breathe at a comfortable rate, esp following a period of exertion
2. renewed ability to continue in an effort

second wind

1. A new surge of energy after a period of mental or physical exhaustion: “At the midway mark, the marathoner got her second wind and left the other runners far behind.” The expression refers to the fact that a person's metabolism changes to a more efficient mode during prolonged exercise.

Word History and Origins

Origin of second wind¹

First recorded in 1895–1900

Idioms and Phrases

Restored energy or strength, enabling one to continue an activity or task. For example, I wasn't sure how far they'd get in a week, but now they seem to have gotten their second wind and are making good progress painting the mural . This expression, dating from the late 1800s, was at first (and still is) used for returned ease in breathing after becoming out of breath during physical exertion such as running. It soon began to be applied to nonphysical efforts as well.

Example Sentences

By late Monday into Tuesday, the winds are expected to die down across the Southland before forecasters are calling for a second wind event, which is expected to hit Northern California first.

From Los Angeles Times

Despite the setbacks, Oleksandr says the Kharkiv offensive has given his tired men a second wind.

From BBC

It’s not the first time an obscure Gen X indie single found a second wind via inscrutable streaming bumps.

From Los Angeles Times

Clarke was docked a point for a low blow in the seventh but found a second wind against a noticeably fatigued and bloodied opponent.

From BBC

The group got a dramatic second wind soon after the Taliban toppled the Afghan government that year.

From New York Times