gags
/ɡæɡz/
NOUN
1. Jokes or humorous tricks
Jokes, amusing remarks, or mischievous tricks intended to entertain or make people laugh.
1.1. Jokes and comic remarks
Humorous lines, witty remarks, or comic situations used to amuse an audience.
Synonyms
- jokes
- quips
- wisecracks
- one-liners
- witticisms
- jests
- cracks
- boffolas
- knee-slappers
Examples
- The stand-up comedian delivered a series of clever gags that had the audience in stitches.
- The sitcom's success was attributed to its witty dialogue and hilarious running gags.
Related Words
- comedy
- humor
- wordplay
- repartee
- banter
1.2. Pranks and playful tricks
Mischievous acts, practical jokes, or playful tricks performed to surprise or amuse others.
Synonyms
Examples
- The children came up with several silly gags to surprise their teacher.
- The performers used visual gags and playful tricks throughout the show.
Related Words
- mischief
- tomfoolery
- escapades
- trickery
- fooling
NOUN
2. Devices or orders that prevent speech
Objects or formal restrictions used to prevent someone from speaking or communicating.
2.1. Devices used to silence someone
Objects placed over or inside the mouth to prevent a person from speaking.
Synonyms
- muzzles
- restraints
Examples
- The guards removed the gags from the prisoners before questioning them.
Related Words
- tape
- straps
- mouthpieces
- bonds
2.2. Restrictions on speaking or publishing
Formal orders or rules that prohibit discussion or disclosure of information about a particular subject or case.
Synonyms
- gag orders
- silencing orders
- speech restrictions
Examples
- The court issued gags preventing the parties from discussing the case publicly.
Related Words
- censorship
- confidentiality
- publication bans
- restrictions
NOUN
3. Devices or tricks used to create effects
Devices, techniques, or gimmicks used to produce a particular effect, especially in entertainment.
3.1. Special effects and theatrical tricks
Practical devices or techniques used to create amusing, surprising, or convincing effects in performances and productions.
Synonyms
Examples
- The comedy film relied on visual gags to make its scenes more entertaining.
Related Words
- stagecraft
- illusions
- props
- contrivances
- special effects
NOUN
4. Retching or choking sensations
Involuntary contractions of the throat or upper digestive tract that produce the sensation or action of retching or choking.
4.1. Retching and choking reflexes
Episodes of involuntary throat contractions or retching caused by nausea, irritation, or an unpleasant taste.
Synonyms
- retchings
- heavings
- chokings
- convulsions
Examples
- The unpleasant smell caused several gags before he managed to leave the room.
Related Words
4.2. Substances that trigger retching
Mouthfuls of food, drink, or other substances that cause someone to gag, choke, or feel an urge to vomit.
Synonyms
- mouthfuls
Examples
- The bitter medicine caused repeated gags when he tried to swallow it.
Related Words
VERB
5. Experiences of retching or choking
To experience involuntary throat contractions, retching, or choking sensations.
5.1. Retching or choking
Experiencing involuntary contractions of the throat or stomach, often because of nausea or an unpleasant taste.
Synonyms
Antonyms
- breathes
- respires
Examples
- The strong odor makes him gag whenever he enters the room.
- He gags whenever he tries to swallow the unpleasant medicine.
Related Words
5.2. Causing nausea or retching
Making someone feel nauseated or causing involuntary retching through an unpleasant smell, taste, or experience.
Synonyms
- nauseates
- chokes
- sickens
Examples
- The spoiled food gags anyone who gets close enough to smell it.
Related Words
- disgusts
- repulses
- revolts
- upsets
VERB
6. Restraining someone's speech
To prevent someone from speaking by physically blocking the mouth or by imposing restrictions on what they may say.
6.1. Physically silencing someone
Preventing someone from speaking by placing an object over or inside the mouth.
Synonyms
- muzzles
- silences
- stifles
- smothers
Examples
- The kidnappers gag their captives to prevent them from calling for help.
Related Words
- restrains
- binds
- tapes
- immobilizes
6.2. Suppressing someone's right to speak
Preventing someone from expressing opinions or discussing a subject through rules, pressure, or restrictions.
Synonyms
- silences
- muzzles
- stifles
- suppresses
- censors
- inhibits
Examples
- The new regulations gag critics who attempt to speak publicly about the issue.
Related Words
- censorship
- repression
- restrictions
- withholding
6.3. Holding open the mouth
Forcing or keeping someone's mouth open with a device to allow examination or treatment.
Synonyms
- props open
- holds open
Examples
- The dentist gags the patient's mouth open during the examination.
Related Words
- mouthpiece
- dental instrument
- retractor
VERB
7. Deceiving or conning someone
To trick someone into believing something false or to deceive them for personal advantage.
7.1. Deceiving or tricking people
Using dishonest methods, false claims, or misleading behavior to fool someone.
Synonyms
Examples
- The dishonest salesman gags unsuspecting customers with promises of unrealistic profits.
Related Words
- hoaxes
- frauds
- ruses
- deceptions
- swindles