gasp
noun
a sudden, short intake of breath, as in shock or surprise.
was gasping
-
past progressiveof gasp.past progressive
Used to describe an ongoing action or continuous state that was happening at a specific time in the past.
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.
I was gasping for air and having difficulty maintaining balance when he stopped.
From Los Angeles Times ● Dec. 28, 2025
"She was gasping for air," Casiano testified on the witness stand.
From Salon ● Aug. 8, 2023
“This was the first time I experienced what it is to be deprived of oxygen. I had the tingling sensation, my hands and feet were cold and I was gasping for breath,” he said.
From Washington Times ● May 23, 2023
"I couldn't breathe. I was gasping for air."
From BBC ● May 19, 2023
He was gasping for breath and not getting it.
From "A Monster Calls" by Patrick Ness
