get your second wind
Meaning
To regain energy and feel able to continue after feeling tired or out of breath.
Origin
From endurance sports: after an initial period of fatigue, breathing and energy can feel like they improve, as if a new βwindβ (breath) arrives. Recorded in English from the 19th century.
Notes
Used for sports and also work/study: after a slump, you suddenly feel renewed energy. Common in spoken English; implies a noticeable rebound.
Examples
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I was fading around mile six, but after I slowed down for a bit, I got my second wind and finished strong.
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By 3 p.m. I was exhausted, but after a short break I got my second wind and powered through the rest of the work.
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The hike was brutal at first, but once we reached the ridge I got my second wind and kept going.
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I was struggling to stay awake during the first few chapters, but then I got my second wind and read until midnight.
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I felt sluggish in the first half, but once the warm-up kicked in I got my second wind and the last set felt easy.
Grammar & Usage Notes
Usually with possessive: βget my/your/his second wind.β Also βcatch/find a second wind.β Can be past: βgot my second wind.β Less often pluralized.
Synonyms
- regain energy
- get a new burst of energy
- catch a second wind
Antonyms
- run out of steam
- lose steam
- tire out