How Do You Spell LAPS UP?

Pronunciation: [lˈaps ˈʌp] (IPA)

The spelling of the phrase "laps up" can be explained using the International Phonetic Alphabet (IPA). The "l" sound is represented by the IPA symbol /l/, the "æ" vowel sound is represented by /æ/, and the "p" sound is represented by /p/. The "s" sound is spelled with the letter "s" but can also be pronounced as /z/ depending on the context. Overall, the spelling of "laps up" accurately represents its pronunciation, with the stress falling on the first syllable.

LAPS UP Meaning and Definition

1. The phrase "laps up" is an idiomatic expression used to describe someone who eagerly and enthusiastically accepts or enjoys something, often to an excessive or indulgent extent. The term metaphorically alludes to the behavior of a dog licking up water or liquid with great satisfaction, as if savoring every drop.

   When a person "laps up" something, it typically implies that they are wholeheartedly embracing and relishing a particular experience, object, or information. It suggests a keen willingness to accept and appreciate something without hesitation or reservation. This can apply to various contexts, including the enjoyment of entertainment, like movies or music, the reception of compliments or praise, or the acceptance of an opportunity or fortune.

   The phrase also often conveys a sense of delight, pleasure, or gratification on the part of the individual who is "lapping up" whatever it may be. It implies a strong positive response or reaction that may border on a sense of being overtaken by delight or being absorbed by something.

   However, it's essential to note that while the phrase generally has positive connotations, it can also be used derisively or sarcastically to suggest that someone is naively accepting or gullibly believing something without question or critical evaluation. In such cases, it implies a lack of discernment or a person excessively falling for something without considering its flaws or potential negative aspects.

Common Misspellings for LAPS UP

• lapsup

Etymology of LAPS UP

The word "laps up" is a verb phrase composed of two parts: "laps" and "up".

The word "laps" can be traced back to the Old English word "lapian", meaning "to drink by scooping with the tongue". It is derived from Proto-Germanic "lapojaną", which shares its roots with the Middle Low German "lapen" (to lick) and Middle Dutch "lappen" (to lap). The word "laps" is also related to the Old Norse word "leppr" (the lip) and Old High German "sliphon" (to lick).

The word "up" is an adverb or preposition that generally denotes direction toward a higher position or level. Its origins can be traced back to the Old English "upp", which is similar to the Old Frisian "up" and Middle Dutch "op".