English · Body & Health
yawn
/jɔːn/
[/jɔːn/]
open the mouth wide when tired
Beginnerverb
Definition
To open the mouth wide and breathe in deeply, usually when tired or bored. It can also be a noun for this action.
Example
I started to yawn during the long lecture.
I started to yawn during the long lecture.
Etymology
From Old English 'ginian' / 'gānian' (to gape, yawn).
How & Where It’s Used
Associated with tiredness and boredom; yawning is often described as contagious.