gasp
noun
a sudden, short intake of breath, as in shock or surprise.
gasping
-
present participleof gasp.present participle
A verb form that is used in progressive verb constructions and may also function as a modifier or a gerund.
Example Sentences
Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.
In the darkness, partially kneeling, gasping for air and practically immobile, he suffered aftershock after aftershock.
From Barron's ● Jul. 5, 2026
“I had kind of a mental health breakdown,” Tyson said, describing sleep deprivation so severe she felt drunk and anxiety attacks that left her gasping for air.
From The Wall Street Journal ● May 8, 2026
"I measured quite low, even though my OCD means when I am triggered, I'm cleaning for two to three hours with pure bleach and I'm gasping for air," he said.
From BBC ● Apr. 29, 2026
Female jurors watched with rapt attention, some gasping in shock.
From Los Angeles Times ● Feb. 27, 2026
Akira kicked back up and burst from the frigid water, gasping and coughing.
From "Two Degrees" by Alan Gratz
