breaking wind
Definition
Noun: - The act of expelling gas from the intestines through the anus: "breaking wind" refers to the bodily function of releasing intestinal gas, commonly known as flatulence.
Usage
The term "breaking wind" is a common, somewhat euphemistic phrase for flatulence. It is used in informal contexts to describe the action politely or humorously. It functions as a noun phrase.
Examples
- Noun:
- He excused himself after accidentally breaking wind.
- Breaking wind in public can be embarrassing.
Advanced Usage
- "to break wind": This is the verbal form of the noun phrase. It means to expel intestinal gas.
- It is considered impolite to break wind at the dinner table.
Variants and Related Words
- Flatulence (n): The medical or formal term for the presence of excess gas in the digestive tract or the act of expelling it.
- Fart (n/v): A direct, informal, and often vulgar term for (the act of) breaking wind.
- Pass gas (v): A common and polite verbal phrase synonymous with "to break wind."
Synonyms
- Flatulence: The formal synonym.
- Passing gas: A polite synonym.
Related Phrases (Phrasal Verbs)
- To let one rip: A very informal and humorous idiom meaning to break wind loudly.
Noun
-
a reflex that expels intestinal gas through the anus
