gasp

gasp

verb \ˈgasp\

Definition of GASP

intransitive verb

1

: to catch the breath convulsively and audibly (as with shock)

2

: to breathe laboriously

transitive verb

: to utter in a gasping manner

— gasp noun

Examples of GASP

1. Mom gasped in surprise at the sight of my sister's new haircut.
2. He gasped as he stepped into the icy water.
3. a dying man gasping for breath
4. She was gasping for air.

Origin of GASP

Middle English; akin to Old Norse geispa to yawn

First Known Use: 14th century

Related to GASP

Synonyms: blow, heave, hyperventilate, pant, puff, wheeze, be out of breath

Related Words: choke, gag, gulp, huff; asphyxiate, smother, stifle, strangle; snore, snuffle; exhale, expire

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Rhymes with GASP

asp, clasp, grasp, hasp, rasp