Lapping Meaning in English
word · lemma: lap
Definition
'Lapping' describes the gentle sound or action of water moving against a surface, or the way an animal drinks by using its tongue. It can refer to both the noise and the motion.
Usage & Nuances
Often found in descriptive, poetic, and narrative contexts, especially about water ("the waves lapping at the shore"). Also used for how animals drink (e.g., "The cat is lapping up the milk"). Not used for people drinking. Can be confused with 'lapping up' meaning 'enjoy enthusiastically'.
Example Sentences
The water was lapping against the boat.
basic
The kitten is lapping up the milk.
basic
I heard the sound of waves lapping the shore.
basic
Rain was lapping at the window all night long.
natural
We sat by the lake, listening to the water lapping on the rocks.
natural
The puppy started lapping as soon as I filled its bowl.
natural