After staying under water for almost a minute, Jason had to come up for air.
2. Fig. to stop what one is doing for a different activity or rest. •Whenever you get off the phone and come up for air, I have a question for you.
•I want you to go to the store for me when you come up for air.
3. Fig. to stop kissing for a moment and breathe. •Don't those kids ever come up for air?
•When are you two going to come up for air?