Meaning & Definition of word "Gasp"

Gasp

/ɡæsp/

1. A sudden, sharp intake of breath, typically due to shock or astonishment.
- Example: There was a collective gasp from the audience when the magician pulled off the trick.
2. An act of gasping.
- Example: Her gasp was so loud that it caught everyone's attention.

1. To catch one's breath audibly, often as a result of surprise, shock, or difficulty breathing.
- Example: When she saw the surprise party, she couldn't help but gasp.
2. To draw in breath sharply, often in response to strong emotion.
- Example: He gasped in horror as the movie reached its climax.

Middle English 'gaspen', from Old Norse 'gasp', related to the German 'gaspen'.

gasp in surprise:

to take a sharp breath due to astonishment or shock.

gasp for air:

to struggle to breathe, often due to exhaustion or suffocation.

gasp in horror:

to express shock or fear by inhaling sharply.

gasped:

past tense of gasp, indicating a sudden breath taken previously.

gasping:

the act of inhaling sharply, often indicating distress or exhaustion.

Meaning: OMG (Oh My God)

Example Sentence: When she heard the news, she gasped, 'OMG!'

Meaning: That's insane!

Example Sentence: He gasped in disbelief, 'That's insane!'