Gaze Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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gaze

[ษกeษชz ]

Definitions

Context #1 | Verb

eye contact

To look steadily and intently at someone or something.

Synonyms

gawk, peer, stare.

Examples of usage

  • He gazed into her eyes and felt his heart skip a beat.
  • She gazed out of the window, lost in thought.
Context #2 | Noun

intense look

A steady, intent look.

Synonyms

glare, look, stare.

Examples of usage

  • She gave him a piercing gaze that made him feel uncomfortable.
  • The painting captured the artist's intense gaze.

Translations

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Interesting Facts

Psychology

  • Gazing can convey emotions; prolonged eye contact may indicate trust and affection between individuals.
  • Research shows that the direction and duration of oneโ€™s gaze can significantly affect social interaction and non-verbal communication.

Literature

  • In many poems and novels, charactersโ€™ gazes often reveal their inner thoughts and feelings without needing words.
  • The act of gazing can symbolize longing or desire, often used in love stories to depict romantic interest.

Art

  • In visual art, the concept of the 'gaze' refers to the angle and intensity with which viewers observe art pieces, influencing their interpretation.
  • Artists sometimes create pieces intended for the viewer's gaze to linger, inviting deeper contemplation.

Pop Culture

  • The phrase 'the gaze' has entered pop culture, referring to how different viewers perceive visual media, often in discussions about gender and race.
  • Many films use the technique of a lingering gaze to highlight themes of obsession or contemplation.

Origin of 'gaze'

Main points about word origin

  • The term 'gaze' originates from Middle English, derived from the word 'gazen', which meant to stare or to look closely.
  • Related words include 'gazing', which reflects a prolonged focus on an object or scene, often signifying interest or admiration.

The word 'gaze' originated from the Middle English word 'gasen', which meant 'to look intently or fixedly'. It has roots in Old Norse and is related to the Old English word 'gฤsian'. Over time, the word evolved to its current usage in Modern English, where it refers to a steady or intent look at someone or something.


See also: gauze.

Word Frequency Rank

With rank #4,065, this word represents useful upper-intermediate vocabulary. Understanding and using it will help you express more complex ideas effectively.