Lap Meaning
Lap Definition & Usage
The flat area of the upper legs when sitting, often used to support a person or an object.
Examples
- "The baby was asleep on her lap."
- "He put the book on my lap and asked me to read aloud."
- "She placed the dog on her lap to keep it warm."
- "The child sat on his father's lap during the movie."
- "She felt a warmth spread through her lap as she hugged the kitten."
To move forward by one’s own action, usually in a rhythmic way (e.g., in a race or swimming).
Examples
- "The runner lapped the others on the final lap."
- "The swimmer lapped the competition in the second half of the race."
- "He lapped the track five times before taking a break."
- "She is determined to lap everyone in the marathon."
- "By the second lap, she had already lapped her closest competitor."
A complete circuit or loop around a track or course, especially in a race.
Examples
- "The cyclists completed their final lap before the finish line."
- "The race was so close that it was decided in the last lap."
- "He set a new record for the lap time in the 400-meter race."
- "She finished the race on her final lap with a burst of energy."
- "It was neck and neck, but he managed to take the lead on the last lap."
Cultural Context
'Lap' has strong associations with care, comfort, and affection, especially in familial settings. It can symbolize warmth and security, particularly when a child or pet is placed in someone's lap. In sports, 'lap' refers to physical performance, especially in races or competitive events, denoting a measure of distance or achievement.
The Last Lap
Story
The Last Lap
It was the final race of the season, and every athlete was pushing themselves to the limit. Maria, a seasoned runner, found herself in a tight race with the newcomer, Jack, who had already surprised everyone with his speed. As they neared the final lap, Maria could feel the fatigue setting in, her legs aching with every step. She glanced at Jack, who was only a few meters ahead. She wasn't about to let him win without a fight. The crowd cheered as they rounded the last bend. Jack was still ahead, but Maria's determination kicked in. Her legs burned, but she pushed herself harder, faster. She was gaining on him. The finish line was in sight. With one last burst of energy, Maria surged past Jack just before the finish, crossing the line with mere seconds to spare. It was her victory, earned on the final lap. Later that day, Maria sat in the locker room, her legs sprawled across the bench, feeling the ache in her lap from the race. The medal around her neck was heavy with pride, but it was the satisfaction of finishing strong that filled her with joy. She smiled, remembering how she'd lapped her competitors in the earlier parts of the race, but nothing compared to the final lap—the lap that truly mattered.
