Meaning & Definition of word "Yawn"

Yawn

/jɔːn/

noun:

  • 1. An act of yawning.
    • Example: His yawn was contagious, and soon everyone in the room was yawning.
  • 2. A wide opening or gap.
    • Example: The yawn of the canyon was breathtaking from the viewpoint.

verb:

  • 1. To open the mouth wide and inhale deeply due to tiredness or boredom.
    • Example: She couldn't help but yawn during the long meeting.
  • 2. To show a lack of interest or boredom.
    • Example: He let out a yawn while listening to the lecture about tax laws.

Etymology

Middle English: from the Old Norse 'gái', meaning 'to yawn'

Common Phrases and Expressions

yawning gap:

A wide opening or gap.

yawn and stretch:

To stretch one's arms and body while yawning, often signaling tiredness or relaxation.

Related Words

boredom:

A state of being bored; lack of interest.

fatigue:

Extreme tiredness resulting from mental or physical exertion.

Slang Meanings of yawn

Meaning: To express boredom or disinterest.

Example Sentence: That movie was such a yawn!

Meaning: A dull or uninspiring person or situation.

Example Sentence: Don't invite him; he's a real yawn.