yawn

[ yawn ]

verb (used without object)

1. to open the mouth somewhat involuntarily with a prolonged, deep inhalation and sighing or heavy exhalation, as from drowsiness or boredom.

   Synonyms: gape

2. to open wide like a mouth.

   Synonyms: gape

3. to extend or stretch wide, as an open and deep space.

   Synonyms: gape

verb (used with object)

1. to say with a yawn.
2. Archaic. to open wide, or lay open, as if by yawning.

noun

1. an act or instance of yawning.
2. an opening; open space; chasm.
3. Also Informal. something so boring as to make one yawn:

   Critics say the new fashions are one big yawn.

yawn

/ jɔːn /

verb

1. intr to open the mouth wide and take in air deeply, often as in involuntary reaction to tiredness, sleepiness, or boredom
2. tr to express or utter while yawning
3. intr to be open wide as if threatening to engulf (someone or something)

   the mine shaft yawned below

noun

1. the act or an instance of yawning

Derived Forms

• ˈyawner, noun
• ˈyawning, adjective
• ˈyawningly, adverb

Word History and Origins

Origin of yawn¹

First recorded before 900; Middle English verb yanen, yonen, alteration of yenen, Old English ge(o)nian; akin to Old English gānian, ginan, Old Norse gīna, German gähnen, Latin hiāre “to be wide open, gape,” Greek chaínein “to gape”; hiatus, dehisce ( def ), chasm

Word History and Origins

Origin of yawn¹

Old English gionian; related to Old Saxon ginōn, Old High German ginēn to yawn, Old Norse gjā gap

Example Sentences

The higher cap is “a big yawn for” independent productions, said Sky Moore, a partner at law firm Greenberg Glusker.

From Los Angeles Times

“You are advised to be chewing something, yawn or keep your mouth open,” the announcer said, to the amusement of some passengers.

From BBC

Although you might yawn a little more frequently than usual, you will probably be fine.

From BBC

They told me to kill, kill my lawn But those native plants are such a yawn.

From Los Angeles Times

Scott put her leadership skills on display during the last season of “Below Deck Down Under,” so we’ll see how she manages a whole new team and deals with Captain Sandy Yawn who, let’s say, wants all the toys out at all times.

From New York Times