gushing

American  

[guhsh-ing] / ˈgʌʃ ɪŋ /

adjective

1. flowing out suddenly, forcefully, or in large volume, as fluid that has been confined.

   Since the rig exploded, all attempts to stop the gushing oil have been futile.

2. having a sudden, forceful, copious flow.

   She clasped her hands over the gushing wound to stop the blood.

3. expressed or expressing oneself extravagantly or effusively, especially in an affectionate or highly complimentary way.

   Followed by paparazzi and gushing admirers, he returned home to face a more realistic assessment from his parents.

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noun

1. the act of flowing out suddenly, copiously, or forcefully.

   Nosebleeds in children often look scary, but these quick tips can stop the gushing.

2. the act of expressing oneself extravagantly or effusively.

   After all her gushing about how great the movie and its director and cast were, I'm looking forward to seeing it!

Other Word Forms

• gushingly adverb
• ungushing adjective

Etymology

Origin of gushing

First recorded in 1350–1400; gush ( def. ) + -ing ² ( def. ) for the adjective senses; gush ( def. ) + -ing ¹ ( def. ) for the noun senses

Example Sentences

Natalie switched to English, and her whole story came gushing out.

From Literature

“Eighty percent is not for little lizards,” Ms. Pfister said, gushing the disdain again.

From Literature

Frazier’s natural skill as an “Entertainment Tonight” host helped smooth the transitions to Malkin’s stammering and distracting voice, but their worthless gushing detracted from the moment.

From Salon

The adulation for the 73-year-old pours out of the place, and on Wednesday, it was gushing on his final bow as Wilfried Nancy prepares to take charge.

From BBC

It’s a fascinating profile, but we really don’t need any of these details any more than we need New York Magazine reporter Olivia Nuzzi gushing about her inappropriate personal relationship with Kennedy.

From Salon

Related Words

• spouting