Meaning of the word laps in English

What does laps mean in English? Explore the meaning, pronunciation, and specific usage of this word with Lingoland.

laps

US /læps/
UK /læps/

Noun

1.

a temporary failure of concentration, memory, or judgment

Example:
He suffered a momentary lapse in concentration.
A lapse of judgment led to the accident.
2.

an interval or passage of time

Example:
After a lapse of two years, they met again.
There was a long lapse between the two events.

Verb

1.

to become invalid or no longer effective

Example:
The offer will lapse if not accepted by Friday.
His membership lapsed because he forgot to renew it.
2.

to revert to an earlier state or behavior, typically a worse one

Example:
He lapsed into his old habits of smoking and drinking.
The conversation lapsed into silence.