gapping

[ gap-ing ]

noun

, Linguistics.

1. a rule of transformational grammar by which repeated instances of a verb are deleted from conjoined sentences, as in the deletion of brought from Mary brought the bread, John the cheese, and Bill the wine.

gapping

/ ˈɡæpɪŋ /

noun

1. (in transformational grammar) a rule that deletes repetitions of a verb, as in the sentence Bill voted for Smith, Sam for McKay, and Dave for Harris
2. the act or practice of taking a gap year

Word History and Origins

Origin of gapping¹

gap + -ing ¹

Example Sentences

They are very irregular, and the gapping does not go down too deeply into the cortex.

From Project Gutenberg

The upper end of it having apparently lost some tissue was gapping more than the lower portion of it.

From Project Gutenberg

He had but just reached this decision when he came upon a gapping hole in the hose.

From Project Gutenberg

"'T is more afraid I am of gapping the fine edge of your Excellency by contact with my own ruggedness," said Billy, obsequiously.

From Project Gutenberg