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Gasping Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

๐Ÿ˜ฎ
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gasping

[หˆษกรฆspษชล‹ ]

Definitions

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

To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.

Interesting Facts

Psychology

  • Gasping often occurs as a reaction to sudden fear or excitement, highlighting the bodyโ€™s instinctive response to unexpected situations.
  • This involuntary reaction is tied to the body's fight-or-flight system, preparing you to respond to danger.

Pop Culture

  • In films and literature, characters often gasp to convey fear, shock, or revelation, making it a dramatic tool in storytelling.
  • The phrase 'gasping for air' is commonly used in suspenseful scenes to heighten tension.

Science

  • Gasping is a physiological response that can indicate physical distress, such as during an asthma attack or panic.
  • When someone gasps, the body takes in a large amount of air rapidly, which can also be a way of releasing pent-up emotions.

Literature

  • Classic literature often uses gasping as a metaphor for sudden realizations or profound emotions, enriching character development.
  • The action of gasping can symbolize a pivotal moment, emphasizing a shift in the narrative or characterโ€™s journey.

Origin of 'gasping'

Main points about word origin

  • The word 'gasp' comes from the Old English term 'gรฆspian', which means to breathe heavily or yawn.
  • It has been used in English since the 14th century, initially describing the act of inhaling sharply.

The word 'gasping' originates from the Old English term 'gรฆspian', which means to yawn or breathe deeply. This term itself comes from the Proto-Germanic '*gaspลnฤ…', 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.