Gaping

/ˈɡeɪ.pɪŋ/

Meaning & Definition

verb

Present participle of 'gape'; to open widely or to stare with an open mouth in wonder or shock.

She stood gaping at the stunning view from the mountaintop.

To show a wide opening or to be wide open.

The gaping hole in the ground made it dangerous to walk near.

adjective

Wide open, as if in a state of astonishment.

His gaping mouth revealed his surprise at the unexpected news.

Open widely; showing a large opening.

The gaping wounds required immediate medical attention.

From the Old English 'gǣpan', meaning 'to gape, yawn'.

gaping hole

A large open space or cavity.

gaping wound

A severe injury that has opened significantly.

gaping audience

A crowd that is staring in amazement.

gape

To stare with an open mouth.

yawn

To open the mouth wide and inhale deeply, often due to tiredness.

gap

An opening or space in something.

To be astonished or amazed at something.

He was gaping at the celebrity in the restaurant.

To look stupid or vacant, as if mesmerized.

Don’t just stand there gaping like a fish; say something!