To charge an excessively high price is to?

Charging an excessively high price is referred to as "gouging." This term is often used in contexts where sellers take advantage of a situation—such as during a crisis or after a natural disaster—by raising prices to levels that are considered unfair or exploitative. The concept of gouging implies not only the practice of high pricing but also a sense of unethical behavior, as it typically affects consumers who may have limited options or necessities.

In contrast, the other terms provide different meanings. To "gloat" means to take pleasure in someone's misfortune, which is unrelated to pricing. "Glut" refers to an overabundance of something, such as goods or services, leading to decreased prices rather than increased ones. "Gape" describes the act of staring in wonder or shock and has no association with pricing either. Thus, gouge is the term that accurately captures the action of imposing excessively high prices.