Definition

The amount that can be held in someone's lap, often referring to a quantity of something like food or items.

Example

She carried a lapful of flowers back from the garden.

Conversation

I just picked up a lapful of fresh apples from the market!

That sounds delicious! What are you planning to do with them?

I think I'll make a pie and maybe some applesauce too.

Great idea! A lapful of apples will make it so tasty.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Lapful → It is formed from "lap" (from Old English *læppa*, meaning the front part of the body between the waist and knees) and "-ful" (meaning full of). The word "lapful" means a quantity that can be held in one's lap, or full of lap.

Memory Tip

Think of the 'lap' as the area in front of you that can hold things, and '-ful' means full of — so a lapful is something that fills that space.

Visually Confused Words