sigh
0 antonyms and opposites of sigh, grouped by meaning.
Verb — To let out a long, audible breath, usually as a sign of tiredness, sadness, relief, or frustration.
How to use sigh
The word patterns that sound natural to a native speaker.
Etymology
From Middle English sighen, related to Old English sīcan, ultimately from a root meaning "to breathe out".
Full origin of sigh →Frequently asked questions
What does “sigh” mean?
The word “sigh” means to let out a long, audible breath, usually as a sign of tiredness, sadness, relief, or frustration. In plain terms, to breathe out slowly and heavily, usually showing an emotion like tiredness or relief.
How do you pronounce “sigh”?
“Sigh” is pronounced seye (/saɪ/ in IPA).
How do you use “sigh” in a sentence?
Here is “sigh” used in a sentence: “She sighed and put down the phone after another rejection.”
What part of speech is “sigh”?
Depending on how it is used, “sigh” can be a verb and a noun.
Where does the word “sigh” come from?
The word “sigh” comes from Old English. From Middle English sighen, related to Old English sīcan, ultimately from a root meaning "to breathe out".
Is “sigh” a common word?
“Sigh” is a fairly common word in modern English, usually learned at around the B1 level.
How many meanings does “sigh” have?
“Sigh” has 2 distinct senses listed in this dictionary. The most common is: to let out a long, audible breath, usually as a sign of tiredness, sadness, relief, or frustration.
What is the difference between "sigh" and "gasp"?
A "sigh" is a long, slow breath let out to show tiredness, sadness, relief, or frustration, while a "gasp" is a sudden, sharp intake of breath, usually caused by shock or surprise. A sigh releases air outward; a gasp pulls it quickly inward.
What is "a sigh of relief"?
"A sigh of relief" is a common expression describing the long breath people naturally let out when a worry or danger has passed. It is used both literally, for the actual breath, and figuratively, to say that someone feels reassured.
What is the difference between "sigh" and "groan"?
A "sigh" is a breath released to express feelings such as weariness or relief and is usually quiet, while a "groan" is a low, often louder vocal sound expressing pain, displeasure, or complaint. You might sigh with relief but groan with frustration.
What phrases commonly use "sigh"?
"Sigh" appears in expressions such as "sigh of relief," "sigh of contentment," and "heavy sigh." As a verb it often takes a preposition, as in "sigh with exhaustion" or "sigh over something lost."