noun/verb (gerund/present participle)
lambida; lamber; sobreposição; polimento
1. The action of a dog or animal drinking by using its tongue to take up liquid
The dog was lapping water from the bowl.
O cachorro estava lambendo água do pote.
2. The sound or motion of water gently splashing against something
The gentle lapping of waves against the shore was soothing.
O som suave das ondas batendo contra a praia era tranquilizador.
3. In manufacturing, a finishing process that uses abrasive compounds to smooth and polish surfaces
The metal underwent lapping to achieve the required surface finish.
O metal passou por polimento para alcançar o acabamento de superfície necessário.
4. In racing, when one competitor overtakes another and is one or more complete laps ahead
The leader was lapping slower competitors by the final lap.
O líder estava ultrapassando competidores mais lentos na volta final.
5. Overlapping parts or edges that lie on top of each other
The lapping of the roof shingles prevents water from entering.
A sobreposição das telhas previne a entrada de água.
In Brazilian culture, 'lapping' when referring to animals is very common in everyday conversation and children's stories. In manufacturing and industrial contexts, it's a technical term known primarily among professionals. The nautical usage is familiar to coastal communities in Brazil. In American sports culture, 'lapping' is a significant achievement in racing events, emphasizing dominance and skill.
Related Idioms & Phrases
lapping up - accepting or enjoying something eagerly
lapping the field - leading by a full lap in competition
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