prolapse
Upper-Intermediate (B2)
IPA: /prəˈlæps/
KK: /prəˈlæps/
intransitive verb
Definition
To fall or slip out of its normal position or place.
Example
The doctor explained that a prolapse can occur in various organs of the body.
Tense Forms
Past: prolapsed
Past Participle: prolapsed
Conversation
I heard that sometimes your back can prolapse if you lift something too heavy.
Yeah, I think that can happen if you don't use proper form.
That's scary! I always worry about injuring myself at the gym.
Just remember to lift with your legs and not your back.
Synonyms & Antonyms
Synonyms
slip
fall
descend
Antonyms
rise
ascend
elevate
noun
Definition
The condition where an organ or body part slips out of its normal position or falls down.
Example
After her surgery, she was concerned about the possibility of a prolapse.
Conversation
I read an article about prolapse the other day.
Oh really? That sounds a bit concerning.
Yeah, it mentioned how it can affect many people without them realizing it.
Root Explanation
Prolapse is formed from "pro-" (meaning forward) and "labi" (from Latin "labi", meaning to slip or fall). The word describes a condition where an organ slips or falls forward out of its normal position.
Memory Tip
Think of something 'slipping forward' — 'pro-' means forward, and 'labi' means to slip. This helps you remember that prolapse refers to an organ that has slipped out of place.
Visually Confused Words
precollapse
relapse
propose