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.
His open V-neck shirt has huge lapels, his hair hangs down to his shoulders and a bushy mustache creases his smiling face, leaving Vachon looking more like the bassist for Spinal Tap than an NHL goaltender. Assistant Sports Editor, Los Angeles Times, 13 Apr. 2026 Similar to hers, this blazer has a subtle pattern, slim shape, and classic notch lapel. Izzy Baskette, PEOPLE, 13 Apr. 2026 Princess Anne also chose a soothing hue by slipping into a turquoise wool coat with wide lapels, previously worn on Easter in April 2018. Giorgia Olivieri, Vanity Fair, 6 Apr. 2026 For that occasion, the young royal wore a custom butterscotch Catherine Walker coatdress with chocolate brown buttons, lapels, and cuffs. Rachel Burchfield, InStyle, 5 Apr. 2026 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 18 Apr. 2026.

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

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