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

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.
There was also a new capsule collection of cocktail evening-wear featuring jackets with satin-free shawl lapels, which were paired with silk-cotton knits. Chidozie Obasi, CNN Money, 25 June 2025 Printed silk shirts, wide lapels, embroidery, sharply tailored jeans and patchwork denim captured the mood. Angela Velasquez, Sourcing Journal, 23 June 2025 Anderson, a warm yet reserved figure sporting a pale blue suit with a red tie and the Jamaican flag proudly pinned to his lapel, said leadership and focus are essential, now more than ever. Richard Fowler, Forbes.com, 18 June 2025 Princess Kate made a fashion statement in an aqua Catherine Walker coat dress with a white collar and lapel, topped with a Juliette Botterill floral hat. Janine Henni, People.com, 16 June 2025 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

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Lapel.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/lapel. Accessed 4 Jul. 2025.

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

More from Merriam-Webster on lapel

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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