Rapid, shallow breathing is known as _____________.

Rapid, shallow breathing is termed tachypnea. This medical condition is characterized by an increased respiratory rate, typically exceeding the normal range for adults, which is about 12 to 20 breaths per minute at rest. Tachypnea often occurs in response to various factors such as physical exertion, anxiety, fever, or respiratory conditions affecting airflow and gas exchange.

In contrast, dyspnea refers to the sensation of shortness of breath or difficulty in breathing, which may occur regardless of the respiratory rate. Apnea describes a temporary cessation of breathing, not applicable to the situation of rapid, shallow breaths. Hypopnea is characterized by abnormally shallow or slow breathing but does not capture the rapid aspect, making tachypnea the precise term for rapid, shallow breathing.