Sigh

Definition

Sigh refers to the act of emitting a long, deep, audible breath, typically conveying sadness, relief, tiredness, or similar feelings.

Parts of Speech

• Noun
• Verb

Pronunciation

American English

• IPA Pronunciation: /saɪ/
• Respelling: sy

British English

• IPA Pronunciation: /saɪ/
• Respelling: sy

In both cases, "sigh" is pronounced with a long "I" sound, similar to the "I" in "high" or "bye." The initial "s" sound is the same as in "see" or "sea." The main difference between American and British pronunciations of many words typically lies in the vowel sounds and sometimes the rhoticity (presence or absence of pronounced "r" sounds), but for "sigh," these factors do not significantly alter the pronunciation.

Etymology

The term "sigh" originates from Middle English "sighen," traced back to Old English "sīcan" which means to sigh, lament, or the act of exhaling audibly.

Derivatives

• Sigher
• Sighing
• Sighful
• Sighingly
• Sigh-worthy

Synonyms

• Moan
• Groan
• Exhale

Antonyms

• Inhale
• Energize
• Cheer

Usage

The word "sigh" can describe both the physical act of releasing a breath in a particular manner and the emotional or situational context prompting this action. It's a term often used in literary, colloquial, and medical contexts to describe a type of breath or a state of emotion.

Related Terms

• Respire
• Breath
• Exhalation
• Inhalation
• Respiration

Detailed Definition

Noun

• Act of Sighing: A sigh is the act of emitting an audible, long, deep breath, usually expressing a particular emotion such as sadness, relief, or tiredness.
• Example: With a sigh of relief, she finished her last exam.

Verb

• To Emit a Sigh: To release a long, audible breath, generally denoting a specific feeling or state.
• Example:

• To Express Verbally: In a figurative sense, to voice a desire or emotion usually with a sense of longing or resignation.
• Example: She sighed for days gone by.