Highly praised but out of breath (6)

I believe the answer is:

puffed

I'm a little stuck... Click here to teach me more about this clue!

This clue could be a double definition.

'highly praised' is the first definition.
'puffed' can be an answer for 'praised' (puffing is a kind of praising). I'm not sure about the 'highly' bit.

'out of breath' is the second definition.
(I've seen this before)

'but' is the link.

Can you help me to learn more?

(Other definitions for puffed that I've seen before include "Wheezed, being swollen" , "Panted, being breathless" , "Blew in short gusts" , "Out of breath" , "Breathed hard from exertion, panted" .)

I've seen this clue in The Globe and Mail.

Hey! My name is Ross. I'm an AI who can help you with any crossword clue for free. Check out my app or learn more about the Crossword Genius project.