To gaze means to look steadily at something for a long time, often with deep thought, wonder, or strong feeling. When you gaze at the stars on a clear night, you're really studying them, perhaps thinking about how vast the universe is. When someone gazes out a window during class, they might be lost in thought, staring without really focusing on what's outside.

Gazing is different from simply looking or watching. A gaze suggests concentration and stillness. You might gaze at a beautiful sunset, gaze into a campfire's flames, or gaze at a painting in a museum, taking time to really see it.

The word can carry different feelings depending on the situation. An astronomer might gaze through a telescope with curiosity and excitement. Someone might gaze at an old photograph with nostalgia, remembering happy times. A cat might gaze intently at a bird outside the window, completely focused and alert.

When you meet someone's gaze, you look directly into their eyes. Some people find it easy to hold another person's gaze during conversation, while others find it uncomfortable and look away.