English Dictionary

Definition of “gulp

gulp (ɡʌlpPronunciation for gulp

Definitions

verb

  1. (tr)  often foll by down to swallow rapidly, esp in large mouthfuls  ⇒ to gulp down food 
  2. (tr)  often foll by back to stifle or choke  ⇒ to gulp back sobs 
  3. (intr) to swallow air convulsively, as while drinking, because of nervousness, surprise, etc
  4. (intr) to make a noise, as when swallowing too quickly

noun

  1. the act of gulping
  2. the quantity taken in a gulp

Alternative Forms

ˈgulper noun ˈgulpingly adverb ˈgulpy adjective

Word Origin

C15: from Middle Dutch gulpen, of imitative origin

Usage examples

  • Isa paused to heave a great, refreshing gulp of air into her anguished lungs.
    Gaskin, Catherine, The Ambassador's Women (1986)
  • Just gulp at the way Moss contorts the line" Like a wild animal growls!
    NME (New Musical Express) (2003)
  • Prices have caused many to ` gulp ' - tickets range from $85 to $225.
    Australian News Misc (2005)
  • I came up and got a gulp of air, then I was pulled back down and I was spinning around under water.
    Belfast Telegraph (2004)
  • You stir the granules into a glass of juice or water and gulp it all down before the mixture settles out.
    Kowalski, Robert E, The 8-Week Cholesterol Cure (1990)

Browse dictionary