Gaping Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
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gaping
[ˈɡeɪpɪŋ ]
Definitions
wide open
Wide open, as in a gap or hole; wide to the fullest extent; open to the utmost width.
Synonyms
open, vast, wide, wide open, yawning.
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| gaping |
Use when describing something that has a large, noticeable opening or is very wide open. Often implies a sense of emptiness or vulnerability.
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| yawning |
Similar to gaping, it often suggests a large and deep opening. Sometimes implies emptiness or a sense of danger.
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| wide open |
Describes something that is fully opened, without any barriers or obstructions. Emphasizes the complete openness.
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| wide |
Commonly used to describe something of significant width or breadth. Can also refer to something covering a large scope or range.
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| open |
Suitable for general use when referring to something not closed or covered. It can also refer to something accessible or available.
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| vast |
Use when emphasizing the large size or extent of something, especially in terms of area, space, or quantity.
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Examples of usage
- The door swung open, revealing a gaping hole in the wall.
- She stared in shock at the gaping wound on his arm.
staring in awe
To stare with one's mouth open, as in wonder or surprise.
Synonyms
gawk, gaze, goggle, ogle, stare.
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| gaping |
Used to describe someone looking at something with their mouth open, often in surprise or wonder.
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| gaze |
Used for looking steadily and intently, often with admiration or thoughtfulness.
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| stare |
Involves looking at someone or something for a long time, often rudely or without blinking.
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| gawk |
Refers to looking at something or someone in an awkward or clumsy way, often used negatively.
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| goggle |
Describes looking with wide-open eyes, often in amazement or disbelief.
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| ogle |
Means to look at someone with strong interest, often in a way that is seen as inappropriate or creepy.
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Examples of usage
- The children were gaping at the magician's tricks.
- She couldn't help but gape at the breathtaking view.
Translations
To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.
Interesting Facts
Psychology
- Gaping can indicate surprise or shock, a reaction when we encounter something unexpected.
- Research shows that open body language, such as a gaping posture, can influence how others perceive your confidence.
- The act of metaphorically 'gaping' can signify an emotional reaction, revealing our inner feelings through our physical expressions.
Literature
- Writers often use 'gaping' to create vivid imagery, letting readers picture vast openings, such as a gaping wound or a gaping chasm in the earth.
- In poetry, a 'gaping' void can symbolize an absence or loss, highlighting emotional depth and vulnerability.
- Famous authors like Edgar Allan Poe employed the term to evoke suspense and fear in their narratives.
Pop Culture
- In movies, scenes featuring characters gaping in surprise are often played for comedic or intense dramatic effect.
- The term 'gaping' has been used in memes to humorously depict shock reactions, such as seeing an absurd or unbelievable image.
- Video games often feature gaping openings in levels that represent danger or unexplored territory, drawing players' curiosity.
Science
- In biology, certain animals exhibit gaping behaviors, such as birds opening their mouths wide to cool off or during feeding.
- The term can describe geological formations, like a gaping hole in the earth known as a sinkhole, created by erosion or collapse.
- Gaping can refer to the pore openings in plants where gases exchange during photosynthesis, highlighting the interconnectedness of life.
Origin of 'gaping'
Main points about word origin
- The word 'gaping' comes from the Old English word 'gapa,' which means to yawn or open wide.
- First recorded use of 'gaping' traces back to the 14th century, often related to the act of yawning or opening the mouth.
- Its modern sense implies an exaggerated openness, often used descriptively in literature and everyday speech.
The word 'gaping' originated from the Old Norse word 'gap', which meant an opening or a hole. Over time, it evolved to describe something wide open or staring with wonder. The verb form of 'gaping' first appeared in the English language in the 13th century, while the adjective form came into use in the 16th century.