Gas

Definition

Gas is a noun and a verb. As a noun, it refers to a state of matter that has neither a fixed shape nor volume, consisting of particles that move freely. It can also mean a flammable substance used as fuel or a slang term for excessive talk or something amusing. As a verb, it means to supply with gas or to talk excessively.

Parts of Speech

• Noun
• Verb

Pronunciation

American English

• IPA Pronunciation: /ɡæs/
• Respelling: GAS

British English

• IPA Pronunciation: /ɡæs/
• Respelling: GAS

Etymology

The word "gas" was coined in the 17th century by Flemish chemist Jan Baptist van Helmont, derived from the Greek word "chaos" to describe an invisible state of matter. Over time, the term came to encompass a variety of uses, from scientific contexts to everyday language.

Derivatives

• Gaseous (adjective)
• Gasoline (noun)
• Gassy (adjective)
• Degas (verb)
• Regas (verb)

Synonyms

• Vapor
• Fuel
• Air

Antonyms

• Liquid
• Solid
• None

Usage

The noun "gas" is used in contexts like "The balloon was filled with helium gas." The verb form is applied in sentences like "He gassed up his car before the trip" or informally, "She kept gassing on about her vacation."

Related Terms

• State of Matter: One of the distinct forms in which matter exists (solid, liquid, gas).
• Fuel: A material used to produce energy.
• Vapor: A substance in the gaseous state.

Detailed Definitions

Noun

• A state of matter without a fixed shape or volume: Describes a physical state in which particles move freely.
  • Example: "Oxygen is an essential gas for human survival."
• A flammable substance used as fuel: Refers to gases like propane or natural gas used for heating or energy.
  • Example: "The stove runs on natural gas."
• A slang term for something humorous or excessive talk: Refers to informal or playful usage.
  • Example: "His jokes were a real gas."

Verb

• To supply with gas: Refers to providing a vehicle or system with fuel.
  • Example: "He stopped to gas up the car."
• To talk excessively: Informal use describing chatter or lengthy discussion.
  • Example: "They were gassing about the latest movie."