WordLens

lap

1 of 2noun
/læp/
Forms:laps
1

the act of licking or touching something with the tongue

  • The dog took a quick lap of water from the bowl.
  • The dog took a quick lap of water from the bowl.
  • A lap of the tongue removed the last drop.
  • The horse took a gentle lap from the trough.
  • The animal paused for one more lap before turning away.
Synonyms:
lick
2

the upper part of the legs that form a flat surface when one is seated

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The lap refers to the area formed by the upper thighs when a person is seated, typically supported by the knees or a surface. It is a comfortable and often used space where objects can be placed, or where a child or pet can rest. The lap provides a sense of warmth, security, and closeness, making it a common place for activities such as reading, holding a baby, or petting an animal. It serves as a personal and intimate space where connections can be fostered and cherished, representing a comforting and nurturing aspect of human interaction.

  • She rested her book on her lap, enjoying the warmth of the sun as she read in the garden.
  • The toddler climbed onto her father's lap, seeking comfort and security.
  • He placed his laptop computer on his lap, typing away on the keyboard with ease.
  • The cat curled up in her owner's lap, purring contentedly as she stroked its fur.
  • The elderly woman sat in her rocking chair, gently rocking back and forth with her knitting in her lap.
3

one complete circuit around a track or course

  • She ran three laps before stopping to rest.
  • The car completed the final lap in record time.
  • He lost his lead on the last lap.
  • The swimmer finished five laps in the pool.
  • The runners slowed after the second lap.
Synonyms:
circuitcircle
4

a situation or event that produces consequences or effects

  • The decision had laps far beyond the courtroom.
  • His words carried laps through the whole community.
  • The scandal's laps reached even the highest offices.
  • The economic laps of the crisis were still being felt.
  • Political laps from the vote continued for weeks.
Antonyms:
inconsequentially
5

a part that folds or lies over another, as in a garment, covering, or structural piece

  • The lap of the coat covered the seam.
  • The metal sheets were joined with a one-inch lap.
  • She adjusted the lap of her cloak.
  • The lap of the cloth hid the stitching.
  • The lap between the two boards ensured no gaps.
Synonyms:
overlap
6

the part of a garment covering the thighs

  • The coat's lap was stiff enough to shield his knees from the wind.
  • She smoothed the lap of her skirt before sitting down.
  • The jacket's front lap folded neatly over his thighs.
  • The designer added decorative stitching along the lap of the coat.
  • The apron's lap had deep pockets for carrying tools.
Synonyms:
lap covering
7

an area or sphere of control, responsibility, or possession

  • The decision now rests in the court's lap.
  • Success fell right into her lap.
  • The matter was dropped into his lap unexpectedly.
  • The problem landed in the manager's lap.
  • The responsibility lies squarely in your lap.