Search Dictionary
Definition of gaping

gaping

/ˈɡeɪ.pɪŋ/
gap · ing
Adverb:gapingly
JUMP TO:

gaping Lexical Profile

gaping Game Scores & Validity

• adjective

1

Wide open or extremely large and deep, especially referring to a hole, cavity, or wound.

Example

"The heavy rain left a gaping sinkhole in the middle of the road."

2

Staring with one's mouth wide open in amazement, shock, or wonder.

Example

"The magician performed the illusion in front of a gaping audience."

Synonyms
View all synonyms for gaping
Antonyms
View all antonyms for gaping

• Rhymes for gaping

• Nearby Words

ganymede
gap
gape
gaping
gapless
gappy
gar

Word Origin & Etymology

Derived from the Middle English verb 'gapen', from Old Norse 'gapa', meaning to open the mouth wide.

Cite this Entry

Wordmom. (2026). Definition of Gaping. In Wordmom Dictionary. Retrieved Nov 5, 2026, from https://wordmom.com/dictionary/gaping
Built for writers, students, and competitive word game players, Wordmom combines an uncluttered English dictionary and thesaurus with fast, pattern-based word finders so you can verify definitions, synonyms, and high-scoring tile plays in one place.
Word Games & Solvers
Word FinderScrabble Word FinderWords With Friends CheatWordle SolverAnagram Solver
Dictionary & Reference
DictionarySynonymsAntonymsWords
Community
Contact UsEditorial PolicyPrivacy PolicyTerms and Conditions
© 2016–2026 Wordmom Network. All rights reserved. Made with for word lovers everywhere.
Disclaimer: SCRABBLE® is a registered trademark. All intellectual property rights in and to the game are owned in the U.S.A. and Canada by Hasbro Inc., and throughout the rest of the world by J.W. Spear & Sons Limited of Maidenhead, Berkshire, England, a subsidiary of Mattel Inc. Mattel and Spear are not affiliated with Hasbro. Words With Friends® is a registered trademark of Zynga Inc. Wordle® is a registered trademark of The New York Times Company. Other referenced game titles and tournament lexicon codes (including NASPA NWL and WESPA/HarperCollins CSW) are trademarks of their respective owners. Wordmom is an independent reference utility for educational and entertainment purposes and is not affiliated with, sponsored by, or endorsed by Hasbro, Mattel, Spear, Zynga, The New York Times Company, NASPA, WESPA, or HarperCollins Publishers. All game names are referenced strictly under nominative fair use to indicate compatibility.