Gas

Podcast 1 · Introduction

Gas

A documentary-style narration: origin, meaning, and feel.

Part of speech

noun and verb

Pronunciation

gas  /ɡas/

Definition

As a noun: a substance in a state in which it has no fixed shape and expands to fill any container; a flammable gas used as a fuel; (American English) petrol; idle, boastful talk. As a verb: to expose to gas; to talk idly and at length.

Plain meaning

Gas is a state of matter — air is a gas. In everyday use: the gas in your home for cooking, or petrol in American English. Gas also informally means idle chatter.

Register

Technical in scientific contexts. Neutral and everyday for domestic fuel and petrol. Informal and colloquial for chatter and amusement.