C1noun2K

Lap

UK /["/læp/"]/US /["/læp/"]/

Definition

the top part of your legs that forms a flat surface when you are sitting down

In simple words: The flat top part of your legs when you sit down.

Examples

  • She placed the book on her lap while sitting on the couch.
  • The child sat quietly in his mother's lap during the storytime.
  • He completed the final lap of the race in record time.
  • The swimmers dove in to start their second lap around the pool.
  • The cat curled up in my lap and purred softly.
  • After three laps, the runners began to show signs of fatigue.

Usage notes

Typically used in the context of sitting down and having something placed on your lap. Not appropriate in formal writing for other meanings, such as a lap in a race.

Grammar pattern

lap + object

Memory hint

Imagine a lap as a soft 'lap' where a pet can sit when you are on a chair.

Collocations

  • first
  • opening
  • final
  • complete
  • do
  • finish
  • record
  • pool
  • on the… lap
  • a lap of honour/​honor

Synonyms

  • thigh
  • knee area
  • upper legs

Antonyms

  • front
  • away

Common mistakes

  • Confused with 'lapse', which has a different meaning.
  • Using 'lap' in a plural form incorrectly (it's singular and doesn't have a plural).