elapse

1 of 2

verb

i-ˈlaps 

elapsed; elapsing

intransitive verb

: pass, go by

four years elapsed before he returned

elapse

2 of 2

noun

: passage

returned after an elapse of 15 years

Synonyms of elapse

Verb

• expire
• stop
• end
• cease
• conclude
• halt
• lapse
• pass
• terminate

Examples of elapse in a Sentence

Verb

in those coin-operated binoculars at scenic areas your viewing time seems to elapse almost before it has begun

Recent Examples on the Web

Verb

Almost three years have elapsed since Reynolds made this heartfelt speech in the home dressing room after Wrexham drew 3-3 with Sheffield United in a thrilling fourth-round tie broadcast live to millions across the UK and beyond by the BBC’s flagship show Match of the Day. —Richard Sutcliffe, New York Times, 8 Jan. 2026

It was later revealed that, due to a series of miscommunications and difficulties in penetrating the highly secure apartment, several hours elapsed between Maher being taken to the hospital and authorities reaching Safra and Torrente. —Alex Gurley, PEOPLE, 21 Dec. 2025

Noun

Twenty years—and not just any twenty, but 1945-1965—elapse in a speedy 23 pages! —Literary Hub, 16 Oct. 2025

However, John Ruddy, the 38-year-old reserve goalkeeper, is set to sign an extension for 2025-26, having also seen his previous contract elapse. —The Athletic Uk Staff, New York Times, 7 July 2025

Word History

Etymology

Verb

Latin elapsus, past participle of elabi, from e- + labi to slip — more at sleep

First Known Use

Verb

circa 1644, in the meaning defined above

Noun

1693, in the meaning defined above

Rhymes for elapse

• bitmaps
• bootstraps
• collapse
• mishaps
• perhaps
• prolapse
• relapse
• satraps
• wiretaps
• apps
• caps
• chaps

Kids Definition

elapse

verb

i-ˈlaps

elapsed; elapsing

: to slip or glide away : pass

weeks elapsed before I found time to write