gasp
UK[ɡɑːsp]US[ɡæsp]
v
To take a short, quick breath through the mouth, especially because of surprise, pain, or shock.
n
A short, quick breath taken through the mouth, especially because of surprise, pain, or shock.
Etymology
The word 'gasp' is believed to originate from Old Norse 'geispa', meaning 'to yawn', which itself is thought to be an onomatopoeic formation mimicking the sound of a yawn or a sudden breath. It entered Middle English, gradually shifting in sense from the broader 'to yawn' to the more specific, sharp inhalation associated with shock or effort. This evolution showcases how sound-imitating words can become lexicalized and their meanings can narrow over time to describe a very specific physical action and its emotional causes.
Analysis
This word is a simplex, likely of onomatopoeic origin, imitating the sound of a sharp intake of breath. It is not productively formed from separate, identifiable morphemes in modern English.
Examples
She gasped in astonishment when she saw the magnificent view.
The cold water made him gasp as he jumped into the lake.
His story was so shocking it drew gasps from the entire audience.