breathtaking

adjective

breath·​tak·​ing ˈbreth-ˌtā-kiŋ 

1

: causing one to breathe rapidly or with difficulty : making one out of breath

a breathtaking pain in her side

2

a

: exciting, thrilling

a breathtaking race

b

: very great : astonishing

his breathtaking ignorance

breathtakingly

ˈbreth-ˌtā-kiŋ-lē 

adverb

Synonyms

• exciting
• thrilling
• interesting
• intriguing
• inspiring

Examples of breathtaking in a Sentence

The train raced past with breathtaking speed.

They gave a breathtaking performance.

The view of the mountains was breathtaking.

a scene of breathtaking beauty

The scope of the error is breathtaking.

Recent Examples on the Web

With its breathtaking views and uncompromising natural beauty, Aspen’s particular cultural phenomenon is its understanding that aesthetics are not ornamental but essential. —Skylar Mitchell, Essence, 5 Aug. 2025

In warmer weather, accordion glass doors open to the outdoor patio with breathtaking views. —Kinsey Giddick, Travel + Leisure, 3 Aug. 2025

The crater’s breathtaking landscape also supports eco-tourism and local livelihoods, contributing to Ghana’s economic development while maintaining exceptional aesthetic value. —Marian Selorm Sapah, Space.com, 2 Aug. 2025

The drive along the coast, with its breathtaking views of waterfalls and enjoyable stopping points like Halona Blowhole, The Makapuu Lookout, and Pali Lookout, only heightened our anticipation. —Ronny Maye, Forbes.com, 1 Aug. 2025

Word History

First Known Use

1840, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Rhymes for breathtaking

• awaking
• backbreaking
• bookmaking
• brickmaking
• caretaking
• dressmaking
• filmmaking
• forsaking
• glassmaking
• groundbreaking
• haymaking
• heartbreaking

Kids Definition

breathtaking

adjective

breath·​tak·​ing ˈbreth-ˌtā-kiŋ 

1

: making one out of breath

breathtaking speed

2

: exciting, thrilling

breathtaking beauty

breathtakingly

-kiŋ-lē 

adverb