—v.intr.
1 a open one's mouth wide, esp. in amazement or wonder. b be or become wide open.
2 (foll. by at) gaze curiously or wondrously.
3 split; part asunder.
4 yawn.
—n.
1 an open-mouthed stare.
2 a yawn.
3 (in pl.; prec. by the) a a disease of birds with gaping as a symptom, caused by infestation with gapeworm. b joc. a fit of yawning.
4 a an expanse of open mouth or beak. b the part of a beak that opens.
5 a rent or opening.
Derivatives:
gapingly adv.
Etymology: ME f. ON gapa
Useful english dictionary. 2012.