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yawning

adjective yawn·ing \ ˈyȯ-niŋ \

Definition of yawning

1 : wide open : cavernous
  • a yawning hole
  • yawning gaps in the plot
2 : showing fatigue or boredom by yawns
  • a yawning audience
—

yawningly

play \ˈyȯ-niŋ-lē\ adverb

See yawning defined for English-language learners

First Known Use of yawning

before 12th century

in the meaning defined at sense 1

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YAWNING Defined for English Language Learners

yawning

adjective

Definition of yawning for English Language Learners

  • : very large or wide open

Learn More about yawning

  1. Nglish: Translation of yawning for Spanish speakers Britannica English: Translation of yawning for Arabic speakers Britannica.com: Encyclopedia article about yawning

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