inhalation

in·ha·la·tion   (ĭn'hə-lā'shən)    n.   The act or an instance of inhaling. An inhalant.

Main Entry: in·ha·la·tion
Pronunciation: "in-(h)&-'lA-sh&n, "in-^&l-'A-
Function: noun
1 : the act or aninstance of inhaling; specifically : the action of drawing air into the lungs by means of a complex of essentially reflex actions that involve changes in the diaphragm and in muscles ofthe abdomen and thorax which cause enlargement of the chest cavity and lungs resulting in production of relatively negative pressure within the lungs so that air flows in until the pressure is restoredto equality with that of the atmosphere
2 : material (as medication) to be taken in by inhaling —in·ha·la·tion·al /-shn&l,-sh&n-^&l/ adjective

inhalation in·ha·la·tion (ĭn'hə-lā'shən)
n.

1. The act or an instance of inhaling.

2. A solution of a drug or a combination of drugs administered to the respiratory passages as a nebulized mist.

inhalation   (ĭn'hə-lā'shən)  Pronunciation Key  The act of taking in breath. Inhalation results from the negative pressure in the lungs caused by contraction of the diaphragm, which causes it to move downwards and to expand the chest cavity. The resulting flow of air into the lungs restores a pressure equal to that of the atmosphere. Also called inspiration. Compare exhalation.