Gasp
/ɡæsp/
Definitions
2 meaningsTo inhale sharply and audibly due to surprise, shock, pain, or excitement.
/ɡæsp/
To catch one's breath quickly and audibly.
He gasped when he saw the size of the cake.
💡 Simply: When you're shocked or surprised, you might take a quick, sharp breath in like when someone jumps out and yells 'Boo!'
👶 For kids: To take a big, quick breath in because you're surprised or scared.
More Examples
The audience gasped at the magician's trick.
She gasped in pain after stubbing her toe.
How It's Used
"She gasped in surprise when she saw the gift."
"The patient gasped for air after the exertion."
"The actor gasped dramatically on stage."
A sudden, involuntary intake of breath, typically due to shock or surprise.
/ɡæsp/
A sudden, short intake of breath.
A gasp escaped her lips when she saw the accident.
💡 Simply: That quick, sharp breath you take when something catches you off guard.
👶 For kids: The sound you make when you take a big, quick breath in.
More Examples
He let out a gasp of horror at the sight.
The audience's gasps filled the room.
How It's Used
"She let out a gasp of surprise."
"The doctor noted a weak gasp from the patient."
"A gasp escaped her lips."
Idioms & expressions
gasp for air
To struggle to breathe, often due to a lack of oxygen or difficulty breathing.
"After running the marathon, he was gasping for air."
From Middle English *gaspen*, possibly of imitative origin, reflecting the sound of catching one's breath.
The word has been used since the late 14th century and has maintained a consistent meaning related to sudden intakes of breath.
Memory tip
Imagine someone opening a surprise box; they *gasp*!
Word Origin
"to yawn or open mouth (related to sounds of breathing)"