Meaning & Definition of Yawning in English

1. An involuntary intake of breath through a wide open mouth

• Usually triggered by fatigue or boredom

• "He could not suppress a yawn"

• "The yawning in the audience told him it was time to stop"

• "He apologized for his oscitancy"

1. Gaping open as if threatening to engulf someone or something

• "The yawning mine shaft"

• "A yawning abyss"

2. With the mouth wide open indicating boredom or sleepiness

• "A yawning congregation"

3. Showing lack of attention or boredom

• "The yawning congregation"