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Gasping: meaning, definitions and examples

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gasping

 

[ ˈɡæspɪŋ ]

Verb
Context #1 | Verb

breathlessness

Gasping refers to the act of breathing with great difficulty, usually because of a lack of air or an overwhelming feeling. It can be a response to shock, intense physical exertion, or a medical condition.

Synonyms

heaving, panting, wheezing

Examples of usage

  • She was gasping for air after running the marathon.
  • He gasped in surprise when he saw the sudden change.
  • The patient was gasping following the allergic reaction.
Context #2 | Verb

surprise

Gasping can also denote the action of inhaling sharply due to shock or astonishment. This reaction is often involuntary and reflects a strong emotional or physical response.

Synonyms

breathe in, exclaim, suck in

Examples of usage

  • The audience gasped when the magician performed the trick.
  • She gasped at the sight of the beautiful sunset.
  • He gasped in disbelief at the unexpected news.

Translations

Translations of the word "gasping" in other languages:

🇵🇹 ofegante

🇮🇳 हथौड़ी मारना

🇩🇪 keuchend

🇮🇩 terengah

🇺🇦 задавлений

🇵🇱 łapiąc powietrze

🇯🇵 息を呑む

🇫🇷 haletant

🇪🇸 jadeante

🇹🇷 nefes nefes

🇰🇷 숨이 막히는

🇸🇦 يأخذ أنفاسًا

🇨🇿 lapající po dechu

🇸🇰 zadychčaný

🇨🇳 喘息

🇸🇮 zadihan

🇮🇸 gaspandi

🇰🇿 тыныс алатын

🇬🇪 სუნთქვა

🇦🇿 nəfəs kəsən

🇲🇽 jadeante

Word origin

The word 'gasping' originates from the Old English term 'gæspian', which means to yawn or breathe deeply. This term itself comes from the Proto-Germanic '*gaspōną', reflecting similar meanings in various Germanic languages. Over centuries, the term evolved in English to specifically denote the action of taking in air suddenly or with difficulty, whether due to emotional responses or physical exertion. In modern usage, 'gasping' can also indicate a dramatic reaction to surprising situations, showcasing the breadth of its application within the English language.

Word Frequency Rank

With rank #16,713, this word belongs to specialized vocabulary. While not common in everyday speech, it enriches your ability to express complex ideas.