agape

adjective

ə-ˈgāp How to pronounce agape (audio)
Definition of agapenext
as in watchful
having or showing signs of eagerly awaiting something at the sound of the sleigh bells the children were all agape, waiting for Santa to appear

Synonyms & Similar Words

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Antonyms & Near Antonyms

Example Sentences

Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Recent Examples of agape Jokic is not competing against the Timberwolves’ Anthony Edwards — though both will leave mouths agape over the next two weeks. — Troy Renck, Denver Post, 17 Apr. 2026 Passersby pause to take in the beauty of her native plants or offer a compliment, and children, mouths agape and fingers pointing, marvel at the buzzing inhabitants. — Charlotte Observer, 25 Sep. 2025 The first time my son and I drove through Pigeon Forge, our mouths were agape. — Lisa Cericola, Southern Living, 20 Sep. 2025 The 15-strong panel’s mouths were still agape as Quentin took his leave, followed by Clark and Schuler. — Jay Glennie, HollywoodReporter, 19 Sep. 2025 Visitors will find themselves with jaws agape at the striking jagged mountain peaks, looming glaciers, and slick icebergs, all set to the backdrop of moody, misty weather—this is a photographer’s dream adventure. — Stefanie Waldek, AFAR Media, 12 Sep. 2025 In that light, Superman might not have it so bad after all, with Luthor’s questing jealousy, not to mention the agape disbelief of a cynical humanity, always there to establish the stakes. — Derek Robertson, The Washington Examiner, 8 Aug. 2025
Recent Examples of Synonyms for agape
  1. watchful
  2. eager
  3. expectant
  4. enthusiastic
  5. anticipatory
  6. agog
Adjective
  • Particularly under the watchful, critical gaze of millions of baseball fans.
    — Gabrielle Starr, Boston Herald, 28 July 2026
  • Key Takeaways Active surveillance, or watchful waiting, is often recommended for people with slow-growing CLL who do not have symptoms.
    — Julie Scott, Verywell Health, 23 July 2026
Definition of watchful
Adjective
  • Now, the 34-year-old utilityman is grateful to be back and eager to build on his four-for-four start over two games.
    — Joaquin Ruiz, Los Angeles Times, 29 July 2026
  • As the Steam Deck slowly marches toward its fifth birthday next February, owners are likely eager for a way to extend its life rather than investing in expensive high-end competition.
    — Kyle Orland, ArsTechnica, 29 July 2026
Definition of eager
Adjective
  • By pairing digital manufacturer coupons with store promotional events, Wheeler shares that expectant parents can build a year’s supply across multiple sizes at 50% off before their baby even arrives.
    — Lauren Brown West-Rosenthal, Parents, 31 July 2026
  • Fahmida and Shaharier, who previously experienced the loss of a preemie baby boy at 8 days old, were shocked when the then-expectant mom went into labor so soon.
    — Kayla Grant, PEOPLE, 29 July 2026
Definition of expectant
Adjective
  • Allen was enthusiastic about contributing on special teams when asked about it earlier in the week.
    — Jesse Newell, New York Times, 1 Aug. 2026
  • However, there is such a thing as being overly enthusiastic, so check yourself if need be.
    — Valerie Mesa, PEOPLE, 1 Aug. 2026
Definition of enthusiastic
Adjective
  • Shapiro remembers the moment the anticipatory grief set in, years before the loss itself.
    — Lisa Respers France, CNN Money, 2 Aug. 2026
  • The Vikings loved his length, speed and anticipatory skills of this tone-setter.
    — Alec Lewis, New York Times, 27 July 2026
Definition of anticipatory
Adjective
  • The reader’s dilemma is not so different from the writer who now navigates a community agog with a game of Find the Imposter, where everyone is both player and umpire.
    — Literary Hub, Literary Hub, 22 May 2026
  • Then finish with the shaggy, colossal coconut gelato sundae or a little demon of a coffee cake, fondant eyes agog.
    — Ligaya Mishan, New York Times, 11 May 2026
Definition of agog

Browse Nearby Words

against
agape
age
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Cite this Entry

“Agape.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/agape. Accessed 6 Aug. 2026.

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More from Merriam-Webster on agape

Nglish: Translation of agape for Spanish Speakers

Britannica.com: Encyclopedia article about agape

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