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 of breathtaking

• 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

Go Beachcombing On Cumberland Island Beach Cumberland’s history and ruins are fascinating, but its natural beauty is breathtaking. —Kelsey Glennon, Southern Living, 21 Feb. 2026

Perched at about 6,200 feet, away from the hustle and bustle of the village, Restaurant La Marlénaz offers breathtaking views of the mountains and the ski resort. —Stacey Leasca, Travel + Leisure, 21 Feb. 2026

From the charming streets of Valldemossa to the breathtaking beaches around Cala Mesquida, nowhere is further than an hour’s drive from the property. —Condé Nast, Condé Nast Traveler, 20 Feb. 2026

The event will focus on wisdom and wellness, featuring engaging speakers, meaningful conversations, and breathtaking coastal views paired with exceptional cuisine, according to a news release. —Ut Community Press, San Diego Union-Tribune, 18 Feb. 2026

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