gape

[geɪp]

gape Definition

  • 1to stare with an open mouth, as in wonder or surprise
  • 2to open the mouth wide, especially involuntarily, as the result of hunger, sleepiness, or absorbed attention

Using gape: Examples

Take a moment to familiarize yourself with how "gape" can be used in various situations through the following examples!

  • Example

    The tourists gaped at the ancient ruins in awe.

  • Example

    He gaped in amazement when he saw the magician pull a rabbit out of his hat.

  • Example

    The child gaped at the candy store display.

  • Example

    She gaped at him, unable to believe what she was hearing.

gape Synonyms and Antonyms

Synonyms for gape

Antonyms for gape

Idioms Using gape

  • to stare with an open mouth, as if one were a fish

    Example

    He just stood there, gawking and gaping like a fish.

  • to lie on one's back and stare at the ceiling, often due to boredom or lack of motivation

    Example

    I spent the whole afternoon just gaping at the ceiling, unable to focus on anything.

  • gape-mouthed

    having the mouth open wide, especially in surprise or shock

    Example

    The gape-mouthed crowd watched in horror as the building collapsed.

Phrases with gape

  • with the mouth open wide, especially in surprise or shock

    Example

    He stood there, mouth agape, as the car drove off without him.

  • to stare at someone or something with an open mouth, usually because you are surprised or shocked

    Example

    The audience gaped at the acrobat's daring performance.

  • a large, open hole that is noticeable and often dangerous

    Example

    The earthquake left a gaping hole in the road.

Origins of gape

from Old Norse 'gap', meaning 'an open mouth'

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Summary: gape in Brief

The verb 'gape' [geɪp] means to stare with an open mouth, often in wonder or surprise, or to involuntarily open the mouth wide. It can be used to describe reactions to various stimuli, from ancient ruins to magic tricks. Phrases like 'mouth agape' and idioms like 'gape like a fish' emphasize the open-mouthed aspect of the verb.