gawking
UK[ˈɡɔːkɪŋ]US[ˈɡɑːkɪŋ]
v
staring openly in a rude, stupid, or unthinking manner.
Etymology
the verb 'gawk', from which 'gawking' is derived, emerged in the late 18th century. its etymology is uncertain but is considered an expressive or dialectal word, possibly a blend of 'gaw' (an old scandinavian word meaning 'to heed') and 'gawk' (an alternate form of 'gawk' meaning 'left-handed' or 'clumsy'), or perhaps imitative of a foolish stare. the core concept has consistently been one of clumsy, foolish, or open-mouthed gazing. the '-ing' suffix is the standard present participle and gerund inflection in english, indicating the ongoing action of staring in this manner.
Analysis
the word 'gawking' is a simplex form derived from the verb 'gawk'. it is not productively formed from distinct, separable morphemes in modern english. its origin is likely a blend or expressive formation.
Examples
tourists were gawking at the celebrity as she walked through the airport.
stop gawking out the window and pay attention to your work.
he stood on the sidewalk, gawking at the massive skyscraper.