GAG

I. verb (~ged; ~ging) Etymology: Middle English ~gen to strangle, of imitative origin Date: 1509 transitive verb 1. to restrict use of the mouth of by inserting a ~, to prevent from exercising freedom of speech or expression, to pry or hold open with a ~, to provide or write quips or pranks for , to choke or cause to retch, intransitive verb 1. choke , retch , to be unable to endure something ; balk , to make quips, ~ger noun II. noun Date: 1530 something thrust into the mouth to keep it open or to prevent speech or outcry, an official check or restraint on debate or free speech , a laugh-provoking remark or act, prank , trick