gag

gag [gag]

vt.

gagged, gagging [ME gaggen, of echoic orig.]

1. to cause to retch or choke

2. to put something over or into the mouth of, so as to keep from talking, crying out, etc.

3. to keep from speaking or expressing oneself freely, as by intimidation

4. to prevent or limit speech in (a legislative body)

5. Mech. to choke or stop up (a valve, etc.)

vi.

1. to retch or choke

2. Informal to make a gag or gags; joke

n.

1. something put into or over the mouth to prevent talking, crying out, etc.

☆ 2. any restraint of free speech

3. a device for holding the jaws open for dental work or for any surgery inside the mouth

4.

a) a comical remark or act; joke, as one interpolated by an actor on the stage

b) a practical joke or hoax