Leap

Definition

A forceful jump or spring from one position or place to another.

Parts of Speech

• Noun
• Verb

Pronunciation

American English

• IPA Pronunciation: /liːp/
• Respelling: LEEP (with "LEEP" as in "sleep")

British English

• IPA Pronunciation: /liːp/
• Respelling: LEEP (with "LEEP" as in "sleep")

In both dialects, "leap" places the primary stress on the entire word, "LEEP." The pronunciation is the same across both American and British English, focusing on the clear articulation of "LEEP."

Etymology

The word "leap" originates from the Old English word "hlieapan", meaning "to jump, run". It has close cognates in other Germanic languages, such as German "laufen" and Dutch "lopen", which both mean "to run".

Derivatives

• Leapfrog
• Leapyear
• Leapling
• Leaper
• Leap second

Synonyms

• Jump
• Spring
• Vault

Antonyms

• Stand
• Sit
• Stagnate

Usage

Leap is commonly used to describe physical actions, such as jumping or springing. It is also used metaphorically to describe significant increases, advancements, or changes.

Related Terms

• Jump: To spring into the air or move quickly off the ground.
• Bound: To move by leaping.
• Spring: To move or jump suddenly or rapidly upward or forward.

Detailed Definition

Verb

• Leap (Verb): To jump or spring a long way, to a great height, or with great force.
  • Example: "The athlete leaped over the hurdle with ease."

• Leap (Verb): To move quickly and suddenly.
  • Example: "She leaped out of bed when she heard the alarm."

• Leap (Verb): To make a sudden or dramatic change or increase.
  • Example: "The company leaped ahead of its competitors with the new technology."

Noun

• Leap (Noun): A forceful jump or quick movement.
  • Example: "With a graceful leap, the dancer captivated the audience."

• Leap (Noun): A sudden or dramatic increase or change.
  • Example: "The leap in technology has revolutionized the industry."