I. ˈlaps noun
Etymology: Latin lapsus, from labi to slip — more at sleep
Date: 1526
1.
a. : a slight error typically due to forgetfulness or inattention
a lapse in table manners
b. : a temporary deviation or fall especially from a higher to a lower state
a lapse from grace
2. : a becoming less : decline
3.
a.
(1) : the termination of a right or privilege through neglect to exercise it within some limit of time
(2) : termination of coverage for nonpayment of premiums
b. : interruption , discontinuance
returned to college after a lapse of several years
4. : an abandonment of religious faith : apostasy
5. : a passage of time ; also : interval
Synonyms: see error
II. verb
( lapsed ; laps·ing )
Date: 1611
intransitive verb
1.
a. : to fall from an attained and usually high level (as of morals or manners) to one much lower ; also : to depart from an accepted pattern or standard
b. : sink , slip
lapsed into unconsciousness
2. : to go out of existence : cease
after a few polite exchanges, the conversation lapsed
3. : to pass from one proprietor to another or from an original owner by omission or negligence
allowed the insurance policy to lapse
4. : to glide along : pass
time lapse s
transitive verb
: to let slip : forfeit
all of those who have lapsed their membership — AAUP Bulletin
• laps·er noun