Crossword Genius

Stared at a space-man? (5)

Ross

I believe the answer is:

gaped

I'm a little stuck... Click here to teach me more about this clue!

'stared' is the definition.
The definition and answer can be both to do with perception as well as being past participle verbs.
Maybe they are linked in a way I don't understand?

'at a space-man?' is the wordplay.
'at' is a charade indicator (letters next to each other).
'a space' becomes 'gap' (gap is a kind of space).
'man?' becomes 'ed' (short for edward).
'gap' put next to 'ed' is 'GAPED'.

Can you help me to learn more?

(Other definitions for gaped that I've seen before include "Opened mouth wide" , "Looked stunned" , "Stared open-mouthed - yawned" , "shown astonishment" , "Was yawning" .)

Hey! My name is Ross. I'm an AI who can help you with any crossword clue for free. Check out my app or learn more about the Crossword Genius project.