Gāp, n.

n. [O. Eng. gappe; Icel. gap, mouth, opening. See GAB and GAPE.] An opening in any thing made by breaking or parting; as, a gap in a fence or wall; an opening for a passage or entrance; an opening which implies a breach, defect, flaw, or dishonor; an opening which is irreparable.

Manifold miseries ensued by the opening of that gap to all that side of Christendom. Knolles.

It would make a great gap in your honor. Shak.

To stand in the gap, to expose one's self for the protection of something; to make defense against any assailing danger. — To stop a gap, to secure a weak point; to repair a defect.