gape etymology

Etymology

The word "gape" originates from the Middle English word "gapen," which is derived from the Old English word "geapian," meaning "to open the mouth wide." It is related to the Old Norse word "gapa," meaning "to open the mouth," and the Proto-Germanic word "*gapōjan," which also means "to open the mouth."

Meaning and Origin

"Gape" has two primary meanings:

• To open the mouth wide, as a person or animal does when surprised, tired, or trying to catch something.
• A wide opening or hole, especially in the ground or a surface.

The first meaning of "gape" as "to open the mouth wide" likely arose from the observation of animals opening their mouths widely to take in food or air. The second meaning of "gape" as "a wide opening or hole" may have developed from the first meaning, as a gap or hole is essentially an opening in something.

Examples

• The dog gaped at the stranger who had entered the house.
• The canyon opened into a wide gape that stretched for miles.
• The pothole created a dangerous gape in the asphalt.

gape relate terms

• gape

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• look

  Etymology Old English lōcian to see Proto West Germanic lōkijanan Proto Germanic

• stare

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