Sigh

As a Noun

1. A long, deep breath often expressing sadness, relief, tiredness, or frustration (e.g., she let out a sigh of relief).
2. A soft sound made by the wind or another gentle movement (e.g., the sigh of the breeze through the trees).

As a Verb

1. To exhale audibly due to emotion such as sadness, frustration, or relief (e.g., he sighed heavily after a long day).
2. To express longing or regret (e.g., she sighed for the days of her youth).

Word History

The word sigh comes from the Old English sīcan, meaning “to sigh or mourn.” It is related to similar words in Germanic languages, all referring to a deep exhalation often linked to emotion.

Examples

1. She sighed in disappointment when she saw the test results.
2. He let out a deep sigh of relief after hearing the good news.
3. The wind sighed through the trees as night fell.
4. “I wish I could go back,” she sighed.

Synonyms

Exhale, breathe out, murmur, moan, whisper

Related Words

Groan, gasp, whimper, lament, heave

Antonyms

Gasp (inhalation), cheer, laugh, exclaim