gasp
gahsp
Gasp (verb) means to suddenly draw in breath, usually from shock or surprise. Example: “She gasped when she saw the size of the spider.”
verb
1
To suddenly draw in breath, usually from shock or surprise.
"She gasped when she saw the size of the spider."
"He gasped for air after finally reaching the surface."
noun
1
A short, sudden intake of breath.
"A gasp went through the crowd as the trick was revealed."
How to use gasp
Learner’s notesIn plain EnglishTo catch your breath sharply, usually from shock, effort, or surprise.
Common pairings
gasp for breath
gasp in surprise
let out a gasp
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Word forms
- Plural
- gasps
- Third person singular
- gasps
- Past tense
- gasped
Fill the gap
Can you complete this real example?
She _____ when she saw the size of the spider.
Etymology
From Middle English gaspen, likely related to an Old Norse word meaning "to yawn."
Synonyms
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Rhymes for gasp
See all rhymes for gasp →Frequently asked questions
What does “gasp” mean?
The word “gasp” means to suddenly draw in breath, usually from shock or surprise. In plain terms, to catch your breath sharply, usually from shock, effort, or surprise.
How do you pronounce “gasp”?
“Gasp” is pronounced gahsp (/ɡæsp/ in IPA).
How do you use “gasp” in a sentence?
Here is “gasp” used in a sentence: “She gasped when she saw the size of the spider.”
What part of speech is “gasp”?
Depending on how it is used, “gasp” can be a verb and a noun.
Where does the word “gasp” come from?
The word “gasp” comes from Middle English. From Middle English gaspen, likely related to an Old Norse word meaning "to yawn.".
Is “gasp” a common word?
“Gasp” is an uncommon word in modern English, usually learned at around the B2 level.
How many meanings does “gasp” have?
“Gasp” has 2 distinct senses listed in this dictionary. The most common is: to suddenly draw in breath, usually from shock or surprise.
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