lap - Master This Word
Master this word with our 5-step learning method – Learn English in English
lap Word Meanings
- the upper part of the legs when sitting
- to take in food or drink with the tongue
- a circular journey around a track
lap Example Sentences
Example sentences are the start of understanding. Don't rush to memorize. First feel how the word works in a sentence.
lap Phonetic & Pronunciation
UK
/læp/
US
/læp/
lap Word Etymology
Old English 'lappa' meaning 'a fold or flap', related to 'lap' as a noun for the part of the body. Picture someone sitting with their knees together, creating a lap to hold a pet or a child. In figurative use, 'lap' represents the concept of surrounding or holding.
Note 1: These definitions and etymologies are not standard dictionary definitions, but extended explanations provided to help with memorization and understanding of the actual application of words. Through this background information, we strive to make words more vivid and easier to understand, and help you remember their meanings in real life.
Note 2: LexiTalk designs the learning flow around the linguistics principle of “Comprehensible Input.” When learners encounter material that is slightly above their level but still understandable from context, the brain naturally absorbs the language. That’s why we keep every word inside authentic contexts, using examples and associations to help you understand it and use it flexibly.
Read the FAQ explanation of Comprehensible InputEnglish Brain Route
I sit and feel my body settle, legs soft and warm where they rest. I shift my weight, adjust the cup in my hand, and let my tongue move to take a slow sip. I picture a small lap around a track, a clean turn and a gentle push of pace, and I keep the image steady as breath guides me. The feeling of control grows as I hold the moment, change the pace with ease, and let the idea of moving through a lap shape how I handle other moments.
Real Context
Lap is a versatile English word with three common senses. As a noun, it means the upper part of the legs when you are sitting, the space on your lap where a child or a pet rests, and, in some phrases, the surrounding area of the body you sit upon. As a verb, lap means to drink by licking with the tongue, especially for animals or small children. It can also describe a single circuit around a track in racing, as in 'three laps to go.' The word is historically rooted in Old English lappa, meaning a fold or flap, and carries a sense of enclosing or supporting. Learners often mix up lap with laptop or with the idea of 'overlap'.
Usage Reminders
- Remember: 1) Lap has three senses; keep them distinct. 2) Say 'sit on my lap' not 'sit in my lap.' 3) Use lap for animals drinking (to lap up milk) or for track laps. 4) Watch for 'lap dog' as a phrase, not a literal dog that runs laps. 5) Don’t confuse lap with laptop; they form a false friend.
Common Misconceptions
- Mistaking lap for laptop because they share 'lap' at the start.
- Thinking lap only means the body part when sitting;忘
- Confusing lap around a track with a lap in a race or exam laps.
- Using 'in my lap' instead of 'on my lap'.
- Thinking 'to lap' means 'to overlap' in all cases.
Thinking Differences
In English, lap is concretely tied to the body and to settings like sports or pet care; learners often mix up lap with similar words (laptop, overlap) or use the wrong preposition with sit. In other languages, the exact body region name and common collocations differ, so learners must map each sense to its native phrasing and practice situational phrases.
Learning Tips
- Practice each sense with 2-3 examples.
- Note the preposition choices (on my lap vs in my lap).
- Relate lap to its track sense with sports vocabulary.
- Distinguish lap from laptop to avoid false friends.
- Use visuals or gestures to memorize the body-part meaning.
- Review etymology to deepen memory of the core sense.
5-Step Learning Method - Learn English in English
Step 2: Usage
Which of the following sentences uses 'lap' correctly?
A.She lapped the book on the table.
B.The cat lapped up the milk.
C.He lapped his hands together.
D.They lapped a new TV.
Step 3: Similar Words
What is a synonym for 'lap'?
A.Leak
B.Gulp
C.Nod
D.Slurp
Step 4: Opposite Words
What is the opposite of 'lap'?
A.Spill
B.Drip
C.Pour
D.Sip
Step 5: Mastery
In what real-life context would you use the word 'lap'?
A.Playing soccer
B.Driving a car
C.Eating ice cream
D.Reading a book
Related Listening
🔥 Advanced
Want to practice more words?
Download LexiTalk app for personalized learning experience
Download App