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.
Therefore, the pins were worn on the escorts’ lapels. Anthony Demarco, Forbes, 2 Mar. 2025 Jared Leto Jared Leto opted for a black suit that featured a feathery flourish along its lapel. Violet Goldstone, WWD, 1 Mar. 2025 The tuxedo jacket for women, with its satin lapels and sharp shoulders, was adopted as a symbol of liberation and revolution. Jazz Tangcay, Variety, 25 Feb. 2025 This olive green style is reminiscent of one Gwyneth Paltrow wore, and it’s finished with oversized peaked lapels, buttoned tabs at the shoulders and chest, and a belt with D-ring buckles. Jamie Allison Sanders, People.com, 22 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

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Lapel.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/lapel. Accessed 9 Mar. 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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