1. (v. i.) To breathe quickly or in a labored manner, as after exertion or from eagerness or excitement; to respire with heaving of the breast; to gasp.

2. (v. i.) Hence: To long eagerly; to desire earnestly.

3. (v. i.) To beat with unnatural violence or rapidity; to palpitate, or throb; -- said of the heart.

4. (v. i.) To sigh; to flutter; to languish.

5. (v. t.) To breathe forth quickly or in a labored manner; to gasp out.

6. (v. t.) To long for; to be eager after.

7. (n.) A quick breathing; a catching of the breath; a gasp.

8. (n.) A violent palpitation of the heart.