gas Meaning, Definition & Usage

noun the state of matter distinguished from the solid and liquid states by: relatively low density and viscosity; relatively great expansion and contraction with changes in pressure and temperature; the ability to diffuse readily; and the spontaneous tendency to become distributed uniformly throughout any container
gaseous state.
noun a fluid in the gaseous state having neither independent shape nor volume and being able to expand indefinitely
noun a volatile flammable mixture of hydrocarbons (hexane and heptane and octane etc.) derived from petroleum; used mainly as a fuel in internal-combustion engines
gasolene; petrol; gasoline.
noun a state of excessive gas in the alimentary canal
flatulency; flatulence.
noun a pedal that controls the throttle valve
gas pedal; throttle; accelerator pedal; accelerator; gun.
- he stepped on the gas
noun a fossil fuel in the gaseous state; used for cooking and heating homes
natural gas.
verb attack with gas; subject to gas fumes
- The despot gassed the rebellious tribes
verb show off
blow; boast; gasconade; brag; tout; swash; bluster; shoot a line; vaunt.

Invented by the chemist Van Helmont of Brussels, who died in 1644.

plural Gases

An aëriform fluid; -- a term used at first by chemists as synonymous with air, but since restricted to fluids supposed to be permanently elastic, as oxygen, hydrogen, etc., in distinction from vapors, as steam, which become liquid on a reduction of temperature. In present usage, since all of the supposed permanent gases have been liquified by cold and pressure, the term has resumed nearly its original signification, and is applied to any substance in the elastic or aëriform state.
(Popular Usage) (a) A complex mixture of gases, of which the most important constituents are marsh gas, olefiant gas, and hydrogen, artificially produced by the destructive distillation of gas coal, or sometimes of peat, wood, oil, resin, etc. It gives a brilliant light when burned, and is the common gas used for illuminating purposes. (b) Laughing gas. (c) Any irrespirable aëriform fluid. 3. gasoline. ✍ Gas is often used adjectively or in combination; as, gas fitter or gasfitter; gas meter or gas-meter, etc.