Gaped Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
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gaped
[ษกeษชpt ]
Definition
action, surprise
To gape means to stare with an open mouth, often in amazement or shock. It can also refer to being wide open or to yawn. This word typically conveys a state of astonishment.
Synonyms
Examples of usage
- She gaped at the magician's final trick.
- He gaped in disbelief when he saw the price of the car.
- The audience gaped at the stunning performance.
- The children gaped at the fireworks display.
Translations
To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.
Interesting Facts
Psychology
- Gaping can be a reflexive response to surprise or shock, signaling an unexpected emotional reaction.
- Cognitive scientists believe that people might gape when they process highly unusual or intriguing stimuli.
- Research suggests that expressions like gaping can communicate emotions even without words.
Literature
- Writers often use gaping to convey shock and surprise in characters, enhancing dramatic tension.
- In classic literature, this expression frequently appears in moments of revelation or discovery.
- Fictional narratives leverage gaping to indicate a pivotal moment that changes the course of the story.
Pop Culture
- Scenes in movies where characters gape typically highlight a twist or a shocking event, making it memorable.
- Reality TV often features people gaping at unexpected outcomes, emphasizing genuine surprise.
- Memes and internet culture often use exaggerated gaping expressions to humorously depict reactions to outrageous news.
Science
- Studies in animal behavior show similar responses; many mammals exhibit wide-open mouths when shocked.
- Facial expressions like gaping have evolutionary roots, signaling vulnerability or submission to avoid aggression.
- Gaping is also observed in social interactions among various species, illustrating its importance in communication.
Origin of 'gaped'
Main points about word origin
- This word comes from the Old English 'gapa', meaning 'to yawn' or 'to open wide'.
- Related words in other languages show similar meanings; for example, in German, 'gรคhnen' means 'to yawn'.
- It has been in use since at least the 14th century, primarily describing someone's astonished facial expression.
The word 'gape' originates from the Old English term 'gapan', which means 'to open wide, to yawn'. This term has Germanic roots, and its cognates include the Dutch 'gap(en)' and the German 'gaffen', both of which carry similar meanings related to opening or gaping. The verb form 'gaped' is the simple past tense and past participle of 'gape'. Over the centuries, the meaning of the word has evolved to encompass not just the act of yawning or opening one's mouth but also to express astonishment or surprise. The use of 'gape' in the context of staring in wonder or shock has become increasingly common, particularly in literary and colloquial speech, as it effectively conveys a sense of wonderment or incredulity.
Word Frequency Rank
Positioned at #23,122, this word is part of extensive vocabulary. It's relatively rare in general usage but may be important in specific fields or formal writing.
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- 23119 saucers
- 23120 baited
- 23121 uncontested
- 23122 gaped
- 23123 cartographic
- 23124 unknowingly
- 23125 dewy
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