Word of the Day: Gasp
What's the story
"Gasp" (verb) means to take a quick, sharp breath, often from surprise, shock, fear, or exhaustion. It can also describe struggling to breathe or reacting strongly to something unexpected. Let's learn more about this word and how it's used.
Origin
Origin of the word
The word "gasp" first appeared in English in the early 14th century. It's believed to come from Scandinavian roots related to "gulping" or "panting for air." Over time, it came to describe both physical breathlessness and emotional reactions to surprise or awe.
Synonyms
Synonyms for 'gasp'
Some common synonyms for "gasp" include pant, inhale, exhale, wheeze, sigh, choke, and gulp. These words describe quick or heavy breathing caused by emotion, effort, or lack of air. They're often used to show strong reactions or sudden physical responses.
Usage
Sentence usage
Here's how "gasp" can appear in sentences: "She 'gasped' in shock when she heard the news." "He 'gasped' for air after running the long race." "The audience 'gasped' at the magician's final trick."
Writing
Why use the word
Using "gasp" adds life and feeling to your writing. It's a simple way to show moments of shock, amazement, or sudden emotion. Whether it's surprise, fear, or awe, "gasp" helps readers instantly picture the scene and feel the intensity of the moment.