Which of the following best describes the term 'wheezing'?

Wheezing is best described as a high-pitched sound that occurs during breathing, particularly when exhaling. It is often indicative of narrowing or obstruction in the airways, commonly seen in conditions like asthma or bronchitis. This sound results from turbulent airflow through constricted air passages, making it a significant clinical symptom that can help healthcare providers assess respiratory conditions.

The other descriptions do not accurately capture the nature of wheezing. A soft whispering sound and a gurgling sound in the stomach pertain to different contexts that do not relate to the respiratory system. Additionally, a normal breathing sound would not include the distinctive high-pitched quality associated with wheezing, which is generally considered abnormal and warrants further investigation.