gags; gagged; gagging
1
: to put something (such as a piece of cloth) into or over a person's mouth in order to prevent that person from speaking, calling for help, etc.
The hostages were bound and gagged. [=their hands and feet were tied and their mouths were gagged]
2
: to prevent (someone) from speaking freely or expressing opinions
The government is trying to gag the press.
3
a
: to vomit or feel as if you are about to vomit : to feel as if what is in your stomach is going to come up into your mouth
The smell (almost) made me gag.
—often + onShe was gagging on the fumes. [=the fumes were causing her to gag]
b
: to be unable to breathe because something is stuck in your throat : choke
—often + on
He gagged on a hot dog.
plural gags
1
a
: something said or done to make people laugh : joke
The movie relies on simpleminded gags for laughs.
a typical sitcom gag
(chiefly Brit) The comedian told a few gags.
—sometimes used before another nouna gag line
Note: A running gag is a joke that is repeated many times in slightly different ways.
Note: A sight gag is a joke that does not involve speaking.
b
chiefly US
: something done as a playful trick : prank
They hid his clothes as a gag.
2
: something (such as a piece of cloth) that is put into or over someone's mouth in order to prevent speech
They tied up the hostages and put gags in their mouths.
3
: something done to prevent people from speaking freely or expressing opinions
The government is trying to put a gag on the press.
Cite this Entry
“Gag.” Merriam-Webster.com Simple Definition, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/simple/gag. Accessed 15 Jun. 2026.
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