Gap

Part of speech: noun

Pronunciation: /ɡæp/

Definitions

1. An opening or break in a physical structure or surface ; a space or interval separating two objects, points, or moments ; a lack or shortfall in a quantity or quality that requires filling or correction
2. A clear opening or hollow in a solid form or area ; a pause or separation between things happening or existing ; an absence or difference creating a need for improvement or balance
3. A discontinuity or hollow in something solid or continuous ; a measurable distance between items or a period of time between events ; a shortcoming or inequality that highlights something missing or incomplete

Etymology: The word "gap" is a close relative of "gape," and the two were once essentially the same word. It traces back to Old Norse "gapa," meaning to open the mouth wide, and the same root produced the Old English "geap," meaning an open space or expanse. Over time, the verb "gape" took on the sense of staring with an open mouth, while the noun "gap" settled into describing the opening itself. The idea of a hole in a surface and the idea of a mouth agape are the same image seen from two sides. A gap is a space that opens up where something should be solid, much as a mouth opens where the face should be closed. Related forms appear in Danish, where "gab" still means an expanse or space, showing how widely the root spread across the Germanic languages.

Synonyms: opening, breach, space

Antonyms: closure, connection