1. A temporary cessation of breathing, especially during sleep.
Usage: Also spelled 'apnea' in U.S. English.; Medical term; commonly used in healthcare contexts.

Examples

• The patient was diagnosed with sleep apnoea after experiencing frequent breathing interruptions at night.
• Apnoea can occur in newborns and is monitored closely in neonatal intensive care units.
• Untreated sleep apnoea may lead to serious cardiovascular complications.
• The doctor recommended a sleep study to confirm the diagnosis of obstructive apnoea.
• Athletes sometimes experience brief episodes of apnoea during intense training.