Gaze

Definition

Gaze refers to a steady or intent look, often with eagerness or curiosity.

Parts of Speech

• Noun
• Verb

Pronunciation

American English

• IPA Pronunciation: /ɡeɪz/
• Respelling: GAYZ (with "GAY" as in "gay" and "Z" as in "zoo")

British English

• IPA Pronunciation: /ɡeɪz/
• Respelling: GAYZ (with "GAY" as in "gay" and "Z" as in "zoo")

In both dialects, "gaze" places the primary stress on the entire syllable. The pronunciation is the same across both American and British English, focusing on the clear articulation of "GAYZ."

Etymology

The word "gaze" originates from the Middle English word "gasen," meaning to stare intently. The origins of this term can be traced back to the Scandinavian languages, though the exact root is not definitively known.

Derivatives

• Gazing (verb, present participle)
• Gazed (verb, past tense)
• Gazer (noun)
• Gazeless (adjective, rarely used)
• Gazingstock (noun, archaic term for a person or thing that is an object of curiosity or scorn)

Synonyms

• Stare
• Glare
• Peer

Antonyms

• Glance
• Peek
• None

Usage

"Gaze" is often used to describe a look that is fixed and sustained, suggesting interest, admiration, contemplation, or scrutiny. It can be used in various contexts, including emotional, artistic, and scientific observations.

Related Terms

• Look
• Observation
• Watch
• Scrutiny
• Sight

Detailed Definition

Noun

• A Fixed or Intent Look: A steady and continuous look, often reflecting deep thought, concentration, or admiration.
  • Example: The artist's gaze was fixed on the landscape as he sketched.

Verb

• To Look Intently: To look steadily and intently, especially in admiration, surprise, or thought.
  • Example: She gazed out of the window, lost in her thoughts.

• To Observe Carefully: To observe something with careful attention.
  • Example: The astronomer gazed at the stars, studying their positions.