What does the word gaping mean?
Gape has multiple meanings depending on the context in which it is used:
1. To open the mouth wide, especially in surprise or wonder:
- The audience gaped in amazement as the magician pulled a rabbit out of his hat.
2. To stare with open mouth, typically in surprise, bewilderment, or wonder:
- She gaped at the giant cake, unable to believe her eyes.
3. To be open or wide, especially in an unsightly way:
- The gaping hole in the roof needed to be repaired urgently.
4. To have a wide or open space, or to be divided by a wide or open space:
- The valley gaped between the two mountains.
5. To yearn or long for something:
- He gaped for the days when he could travel freely.
6. (Of a wound or injury) to be open and bleeding:
- The doctor tended to the gaping wound on the patient's leg.