ɡɛt ə ˈsɛkənd wɪnd
Sports
informal
intermediate
- Literally:
- To receive a second gust of air or breath
What does "get a second wind" mean?
- To regain energy or strength after feeling tired
- To find renewed enthusiasm after a period of fatigue
Examples
- I was exhausted at 3 PM but got a second wind after my coffee break.
- The team got a second wind in the fourth quarter and won the game.
- After a short nap, she got her second wind and finished the project.
Origin
Originally referred to runners who, after becoming exhausted, find new energy to continue. First recorded in the mid-19th century in relation to physical endurance.
How to use it
Common expression for finding new energy. Often used in both physical and mental contexts.
Similar expressions
renewed energy
revived
refreshed
recharged
Opposites
exhausted
depleted
worn out
Related idioms
- no pain no gain
Success requires hard work and sacrifice
- ball is in your court
It's your turn to take action or make a decision
- like riding a bicycle
A skill that, once learned, is never forgotten
- drop the ball
To fail to do something important; to make a mistake
- level playing field
A situation where everyone has an equal opportunity
- on the ball
Alert and competent
Use it in a practice answer
Try "get a second wind" in a CELPIP-style Speaking or Writing task. The AI feedback tells you whether your word choice worked.