yawning Meaning, Definition & Usage

1. noun an involuntary intake of breath through a wide open mouth; usually triggered by fatigue or boredom
   yawn; oscitance; oscitancy.
   
   • he could not suppress a yawn
   • the yawning in the audience told him it was time to stop
   • he apologized for his oscitancy
2. verb utter a yawn, as from lack of oxygen or when one is tired
   yawn.
   
   • The child yawned during the long performance
3. verb be wide open
   yawn; yaw; gape.
   
   • the deep gaping canyon
4. adjective satellite gaping open as if threatening to engulf someone or something
   
   • the yawning mine shaft
   • a yawning abyss
5. adjective satellite with the mouth wide open indicating boredom or sleepiness
   
   • a yawning congregation
6. adjective satellite showing lack of attention or boredom
   oscitant; drowsy.
   
   • the yawning congregation

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