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Showing results for lapse. Search instead for lapso.
Definitions

lapse

[laps] / læps /
NOUN
mistake
Synonyms
STRONGEST
blunder breach crime error failing failure fault indiscretion miscue negligence offense omission oversight sin transgression violation
STRONG
bungle flub foible frailty gaff goof slip slipup trespass trip vice
WEAK
goof-up screwup
Antonyms
STRONGEST
accuracy advantage behavior care correction kindness obedience remembrance right strength success
WEAK
achievement continuity perfection progress
NOUN
break in action
Synonyms
STRONGEST
gap interruption lull
STRONG
intermission interval lacuna passage pause
Antonyms
STRONGEST
continuation
WEAK
achievement continuity perfection progress success
NOUN
backsliding
Synonyms
STRONGEST
deterioration
STRONG
decadence declension decline degeneration descent devolution drop fall recession regression relapse retrogression
WEAK
retrogradation
Antonyms
STRONG
ascent improvement increase rise
WEAK
achievement continuity perfection progress success
VERB
become void; fall back into previous pattern
Synonyms
STRONGEST
cease degenerate descend deteriorate elapse expire go by recede relapse run out subside terminate
STRONG
apostatize backslide decline die end pass recidivate retrograde return revert slide slip weaken
WEAK
become obsolete
Antonyms
STRONGEST
begin commence develop get better improve increase initiate rise start
STRONG
accept grow live take
WEAK
continue go on restart

Example Sentences

Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.

The DHS funding lapse entered its 45th day on Monday, a record in the United States, although government shutdowns typically impact broader segments of the federal workforce.

From Barron's • Mar. 30, 2026

The original contract, which is set to lapse at the end of the month, was for about $90 million.

From Los Angeles Times • Mar. 10, 2026

Fletcher said a "momentary lapse of character absolutely does not reflect my beliefs or values".

From BBC • Mar. 4, 2026

The Graham try proved the turning point following some Russell magic and a Welsh defensive lapse from a restart.

From BBC • Feb. 21, 2026

But after that, we lapse back into silence.

From "The Cruel Prince" by Holly Black

Vocabulary lists containing lapse

The SAT: Multiple-Meaning Words, List 1

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List 4

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"The Landlady" by Roald Dahl

Want to remember this word for good? Start your learning journey today with our library of interactive, themed word lists built by the experts at Vocabulary.com – we'll help you make the most of your study time!