Definition of "gasp" in English

verb

1. (intransitive) To draw in the breath suddenly, as if from a shock.

   • The audience gasped as the magician disappeared.

2. (intransitive) To breathe quickly or in a labored manner, as after exertion; to respire with heaving of the breast; to pant.

   • We were all gasping when we reached the summit.
   • c. 1761-1764, Robert Lloyd, An Epistle to C. Churchill, Author of the Rosicad She gasps and struggles hard for life.

3. (transitive) To speak in a breathless manner.

   • The old man gasped his last few words.

4. To pant with eagerness or excitement; to show vehement desire.

   • I'm gasping for a cup of tea.

noun

1. A short, sudden intake of breath.

   • The audience gave a gasp of astonishment

2. (British, slang): A draw or drag on a cigarette (or gasper).

   • I'm popping out for a gasp.

interjection

1. (humorous) The sound of a gasp.

   • Gasp! What will happen next?