agasp
|a-gasp|
C1
/əˈɡæsp/
state of shock
Etymology
Etymology Information
'agasp' originates from Middle English, specifically the word 'agasten,' where 'a-' meant 'in a state of' and 'gasten' meant 'to frighten.'
Historical Evolution
'agasten' transformed into the modern English word 'agasp' through gradual phonetic changes.
Meaning Changes
Initially, it meant 'to be frightened,' but over time it evolved into its current meaning of 'in a state of shock or amazement.'
Meanings by Part of Speech
Adjective 1
in a state of shock or amazement, often with one's mouth open.
She stood agasp at the sight of the fireworks.
Synonyms
Antonyms
Last updated: 2025/05/28 21:06