Gaped: meaning, definitions and examples

Etymology

• 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, 'gähnen' means 'to yawn'.
• It has been in use since at least the 14th century, primarily describing someone's astonished facial expression.

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.

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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