Yawning

/ˈjɔː.nɪŋ/

Meaning & Definition

noun
the act of yawning.
His incessant yawning during the lecture was quite distracting.
a gap or opening, often used metaphorically.
The yawning chasm in the road made driving difficult.
verb
the action of opening one's mouth wide and taking a deep breath, typically as a sign of tiredness or boredom.
She was yawning throughout the meeting, indicating her lack of interest.
to perform the action of yawning.
He couldn't help yawning after staying up late the previous night.

Etymology

From Middle English 'yonen', of uncertain origin.

Common Phrases and Expressions

yawn and stretch:
A phrase indicating someone's reaction to being tired or waking up.
contagious yawn:
The phenomenon of yawning in response to seeing or hearing someone else yawn.

Related Words

Slang Meanings

Yawning like a boss
He was so tired, he was yawning like a boss during the party.
Yawn fest
That lecture was such a yawn fest, I almost fell asleep.