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.
The green jacket featured a soft tone, with a sharp collar, lapel, waist pockets and buttons, the latter three elements featured a red and green tartan motif. Julia Teti, Footwear News, 9 Oct. 2025 A little retro and a little preppy, the V-neck collar and lapel details elevate the soft and relaxed look to something super chic. Nusrat Sultana, Better Homes & Gardens, 8 Oct. 2025 The lapels were dramatic, large and outlined in white. Skyler Caruso, PEOPLE, 7 Oct. 2025 Doja sported a white, avant-garde lace Quine Li design that featured a plunging neckline and theatrical lapels that extended out over her head. Christian Allaire, Vogue, 5 Oct. 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 17 Oct. 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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