26984 words

gasp

4 definitions • 6 examples
1
to take a short, quick breath through the mouth, especially because of surprise, pain, or shock:

Examples:

gasp in When she saw the money hidden in the box she gasped in surprise.
[ + speech ] "Help me!" he gasped.
2
to breathe loudly and with difficulty, trying to get more air:

Examples:

gasp for He pulled her aboard the boat and she sprawled on the deck, coughing and gasping for breath.
3
an act of gasping:

Examples:

gasp of He gave a gasp of amazement.
4
to take a short quick breath through the mouth, esp. because of surprise, pain, or shock:

Examples:

[ I ] When he collapsed on stage, the audience gasped.
[ T ] "Help me!" he gasped.

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