Lapis Meaning in English

word

US

ˈɫæpəs

LAP-iss

UK

ˈlæpɪs

LAP-iss

Definition

A thin tool, usually made of wood and containing a core of graphite or colored material, used for writing or drawing.

Usage & Nuances

Usually refers to the common 'pencil' used in schools and offices. In some cases, may be confused with 'lapis lazuli' (a blue gemstone), but for writing it means 'pencil'. Common collocations: 'sharpen a pencil', 'colored pencil'. Do not confuse with 'pen' (uses ink).

• Spanish: lápiz
• Portuguese (BR): lápis
• Portuguese (PT): lápis
• Chinese (Simplified): 铅笔
• Chinese (Traditional): 鉛筆
• Hindi: पेंसिल
• Arabic: قلم رصاص
• Bengali: পেন্সিল
• Russian: карандаш
• Japanese: 鉛筆
• Vietnamese: bút chì
• Korean: 연필
• Turkish: kalem (kurşun kalem)
• Urdu: پنسل
• Indonesian: pensil

Example Sentences

I need a lapis to do my homework.

basic

My lapis is broken.

basic

He draws pictures with a lapis.

basic

Do you have a spare lapis I can borrow?

natural

I can't find my lapis anywhere, it's disappeared!

natural

Just sharpen your lapis and you'll be ready to go.

natural