gape •\ˈgap, ˈgap\• verb and noun verb: look with amazement; look stupidly verb: be wide open noun: a stare of amazement (usually with the mouth open) noun: an expression of openmouthed astonishment The word gape has appeared in 58 New York Times article in the past year, including on Dec. 22 in "Tunisian Dictator's Possessions to Be Sold at Public Auction," by Monica Marks: TUNIS - It could be the Middle East's most opulent yard sale. Just in time for Christmas, Tunisia's Finance Ministry has organized a public auction of cars, jewels, carpets and trinkets that once belonged to the deposed president, Zine el-Abidine Ben Ali, the first autocrat to fall in the Arab Spring revolution incubated here two years ago. ... For the price of a 30-dinar ticket, about $20, curious Tunisians can gape freely at the former president's collection of rare clocks, rococo-themed picture frames and gold-plated falcons. Those in a shopping spirit can even take home one of the first lady's treadmills or handbags. Learn more about the word "gape" and see usage examples across a range of subjects on the Vocabulary dictionary.