Gape v. i. [imp. & p. p. Gaped p. pr. & vb. n. Gaping]
1. To open the mouth wide; as: (a) Expressing a desire for food; as, young birds gape. --Dryden. (b) Indicating sleepiness or indifference; to yawn.
She stretches, gapes, unglues her eyes,
And asks if it be time to rise. --Swift.
(c) Showing unselfconsciousness in surprise, astonishment, expectation, etc.
With gaping wonderment had stared aghast. --Byron.
(d) Manifesting a desire to injure, devour, or overcome.
They have gaped upon me with their mouth. --Job xvi. 10.
2. To open or part widely; to exhibit a gap, fissure, or hiatus.
May that ground gape and swallow me alive! --Shak.
3. To long, wait eagerly, or cry aloud for something; -- with for, after, or at.
The hungry grave for her due tribute gapes. --Denham.
Syn: -- To gaze; stare; yawn. See Gaze.