Basic Details
Word: Gaunt
Part of Speech: Adjective
Meaning: Very thin and bony, often because of illness or suffering.
Synonyms: Thin, emaciated, skinny, haggard
Antonyms: Plump, healthy, stout, robust
Idioms and Phrases
- Gaunt as a ghost: Used to describe someone who looks pale and extremely thin. Example: "After the long illness, he was gaunt as a ghost."
- To look like death warmed up: A way to say someone looks very ill or unhealthy. Example: "Shed been unwell for a week, and she looked like death warmed up."
Usage Examples
Example 1: The stray dog appeared gaunt after living on the streets for so long.
Example 2: Her gaunt face made her look much older than her actual age.
Example 3: The legendary story spoke of a gaunt figure that roamed the halls of the abandoned mansion.
Fun Fact
The term "gaunt" comes from the Middle English word "gante," which means lean or thin, and is believed to stem from Old French "gant," meaning thin as a blade.
Famous Quote
"The gaunt figure of a man may be a sign of inner strength far beyond mere physical presence." Anonymous
Multiple Choice Questions (MCQs)
1. What does "gaunt" mean?
a) Very thin and bony
b) Full of energy
c) Bright and cheerful
d) Large and strong
Answer: a) Very thin and bony
2. Which of these is a synonym of "gaunt"?
a) Stout
b) Emaciated
c) Robust
d) Chubby
Answer: b) Emaciated
3. Which word is the antonym of "gaunt"?
a) Thin
b) Healthy
c) Haggard
d) Lean
Answer: b) Healthy
4. Which sentence uses "gaunt" correctly?
a) The gaunt man laughed heartily at the joke.
b) The gaunt cat looked well-fed and happy.
c) The gaunt figure moved silently through the night.
d) The gaunt elephant chased after the tourists.
Answer: c) The gaunt figure moved silently through the night.
5. Which idiom means the same as "gaunt"?
a) Gaunt as a ghost
b) Full of life
c) As big as a house
d) Happy as a lark
Answer: a) Gaunt as a ghost
