gasps

NOUN

sharply drawn breath

Synonyms

STRONGEST

exclamation whoop

STRONG

blow ejaculation gulp heave pant puff wheeze

VERB

draw breath in sharply

Synonyms

STRONGEST

choke snort whoop

STRONG

blow convulse gulp heave inhale inspire pant puff respire sniffle wheeze

WEAK

catch one's breath fight for breath

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.

Gasps turned to cheers as his safety brake snapped into place, halting the fall.

From The Wall Street Journal • Apr. 2, 2026

Gasps were heard from the public gallery as the verdicts were given, and the court was cleared as the defendant appeared unwell.

From BBC • Mar. 13, 2025

Gasps Dreux, “I thought that was the year of establishment!”

From Los Angeles Times • Jan. 16, 2025

Gasps could be heard throughout the staid chamber.

From Washington Times • Aug. 25, 2018

Gasps and shouts come from the crowd behind me.

From "Internment" by Samira Ahmed