lapel

noun

la·​pel lə-ˈpel How to pronounce lapel (audio)
: the part of a garment that is turned back
specifically : the fold of the front of a coat that is usually a continuation of the collar
lapelled adjective
or lapeled

Examples of lapel in a Sentence

He wore a carnation in his lapel.
Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
The lapel badge comes in different colors signifying different levels. Rachel McRady, People.com, 17 Feb. 2025 The tuxedo featured peak lapels and a matching bowtie. Mikelle Street, WWD, 17 Feb. 2025 The corn or Flanders Field poppy (Papaver rhoeas) is often seen on the lapels of people collecting for war veterans. Joshua Siskin, Orange County Register, 15 Feb. 2025 For their first appearance, Ronan met the moment in a navy blue draped Louis Vuitton two-piece, while Lowden coordinated in a matching navy tuxedo with black lapels. Hannah Jackson, Vogue, 14 Feb. 2025 See all Example Sentences for lapel 

Word History

Etymology

diminutive of lap entry 1

First Known Use

1789, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of lapel was in 1789

Dictionary Entries Near lapel

Cite this Entry

“Lapel.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/lapel. Accessed 22 Feb. 2025.

Kids Definition

lapel

noun
la·​pel lə-ˈpel How to pronounce lapel (audio)
: the fold of the front of a coat that is usually a part of the collar

More from Merriam-Webster on lapel

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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