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
lə-ˈpeld How to pronounce lapel (audio)

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.
In portraits in homes and classrooms, in daily photographs on the front page of the country’s main party newspaper, on the lapel badges that citizens had pinned over their hearts, Kim’s image was the very iconography of the state. — Literary Hub, 2 Sep. 2026 The ensemble included a double-breasted blazer with black lapels and creased knee-length shorts. — Jaden Thompson, Footwear News, 2 Sep. 2026 Blanco, 38, opted for a classic black suit with satin lapels and a black button-down shirt underneath. — Catherine Santino, PEOPLE, 24 Aug. 2026 Elordi himself opted to wear Bottega Veneta, sporting a navy, softly pinstriped double-breasted suit with sharp lapels and coordinating tailored pants, a white shirt, and navy skinny tie. — Anna Cafolla, Vogue, 21 Aug. 2026 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

Rhymes for lapel

See All Rhymes for lapel

Browse Nearby Words

lap dulcimer
lapel
lapeler
See all Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Lapel.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/lapel. Accessed 7 Sep. 2026.

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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
Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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