Meaning & use
gasp
To take a sudden, sharp breath, often from surprise, pain, or shock.
See it in a sentence
The audience gasped when the magician made the entire car disappear onstage.
She gasped for air after sprinting the final stretch of the race.
A note on using this word
Gasp usually signals a strong emotional or physical reaction and is often followed by 'in' or 'with,' as in 'gasped in horror.'
Words with a similar meaning
pantwheeze
Choose a synonym to suit the sentence. Meanings can overlap without being identical.
Another way to use it
2. noun
A sudden, sharp intake of breath, often expressing shock or surprise.
A collective gasp rose from the crowd as the fireworks began.
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