gag

[ɡæɡ]

Language▾

German

Persian

Russian

Spanish

A gag is something that stops someone from speaking or makes them unable to talk.

The word "gag" has a few different uses. When it's a noun, it can refer to a physical object like a stick or cloth used to block someone's mouth and prevent them from shouting out. Imagine being at a magic show and the magician uses a gag to make his assistant silent. On stage, the comedian might also use a prop that looks like a gag to add humor to their act.

However, when "gag" is a verb, it means to stop someone from speaking or expressing themselves freely. You might say you can't gag on something if it's disgusting and you don't want to look at it closely. In a more serious sense, people in power might use the term "gag order" for an official rule that stops others from talking about sensitive information.

How common is "gag"?

Word gag is considered rare in modern English.
It has a balanced usage among all categories: speech, fiction, newspapers and academic texts.

Definitions

noun

A device to restrain speech, such as a rag in the mouth secured with tape or a rubber ball threaded onto a cord or strap.
An order or rule forbidding discussion of a case or subject.
A joke or other mischievous prank.
A device or trick used to create a practical effect; a gimmick
A convulsion of the upper digestive tract.
A mouthful that makes one retch or choke.
Mycteroperca microlepis, a species of grouper.

1 / 7

gag ordergag grouper

verb

To experience the vomiting reflex.
Example: He gagged when he saw the open wound.
To cause to heave with nausea.
To restrain someone's speech by blocking his or her mouth.
To pry or hold open by means of a gag.
To restrain someone's speech without using physical means.
Example: When the financial irregularities were discovered, the CEO gagged everyone in the accounting department.
To choke; to retch.
To deceive (someone); to con.