'breathe' originates from Old English, specifically the word 'brēoðan,' where 'brēoðan' meant 'to emit vapor.'

'brēoðan' changed from the Old English word 'brēoðan' and eventually became the modern English word 'breathe'.

Initially, it meant 'to emit vapor,' but over time it evolved into its current meaning of 'to take air into the lungs and then expel it.'