Lap

/læp/

Meaning & Definition

noun

The upper part of the legs when a person is sitting down.

She placed the book on her lap while she waited for the bus.

A single circuit around a track or course.

He completed another lap around the racing circuit.

verb

To take in or drink (something) by using the tongue, like a dog.

The dog lapped up the water from the bowl.

To overlap or extend over (something).

The waves lapped the shore gently.

Middle English 'lap' meaning a fold or flap, derived from Old English 'lapian' meaning to fold.

on your lap

sitting close to you, resting on your knees.

take a lap

to run around the track, often used as an exercise or punishment.

lap up

to take in or enjoy something eagerly.

lapping

the act of drinking or scooping up liquid.

lapdog

a small dog that can be held in one's lap.

overlap

to extend over or cover a part of.

Lap dancer

She worked as a lap dancer in the club.

Taking a lap

After that mistake, I had to take a lap around the track as punishment.