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Gaped: meaning, definitions and examples

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gaped

 

[ ɡeɪpt ]

Verb
Context #1 | Verb

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

gasp, gawk, ogle, stare

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

Translations of the word "gaped" in other languages:

🇵🇹 boca aberta

🇮🇳 हैरान होना

🇩🇪 staunen

🇮🇩 melongo

🇺🇦 застигнути від подиву

🇵🇱 stać z otwartymi ustami

🇯🇵 口を開ける

🇫🇷 rester bouche bée

🇪🇸 quedarse boquiabierto

🇹🇷 ağzı açık kalmak

🇰🇷 입이 딱 벌어지다

🇸🇦 فتح الفم

🇨🇿 zůstat s otevřenou pusou

🇸🇰 mať otvorené ústa

🇨🇳 张嘴

🇸🇮 ostati odprtih ust

🇮🇸 vera stara

🇰🇿 ауызын ашып қалу

🇬🇪 პირში გაღება

🇦🇿 ağzını açmaq

🇲🇽 quedarse boquiabierto

Word origin

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.