lip Hear it!

lip definition

lip (lip)

noun

  1. either of the two fleshy folds forming the edges of the mouth
  2. anything like a lip, as in structure or in being an edge, rim, or margin; specif.,
    1. the edge of a wound
    2. the projecting rim of a pitcher, cup, etc.
    3. the edge of the mouthpiece of a wind instrument
    4. the edge on either side of the sound-producing opening of an organ flue pipe
    5. the cutting edge of any of certain tools
    6. Anat. labium
    7. Bot. a lip-shaped corolla, calyx, or petal, as in a mint or an orchid
    8. labellum
  3. the position and use of the lips in playing a wind instrument; embouchure
  4. Slang impertinent or insolent talk

Etymology: ME lippe < OE lippa, akin to MDu lippe < IE base *leb-, to hang loosely, lip > L labes, a falling, labium, lip

transitive verb lipped, lipping lip′·ping

  1. to touch with the lips; specif.,
    1. to place the lips in the proper position for playing (a wind instrument)
    2. Archaic to kiss
  2. to utter, esp. softly
  3. Golf to come just to the edge of (the cup): said of the ball

adjective

  1. Phonet. articulated with a lip or the lips; labial: not widely used as a technical term a lip consonant
  2. of or for the lips
  3. from the lips only; spoken, but insincere

Related Forms:

lip Idioms

bite one's lip

to keep back one's anger, annoyance, etc.

hang on the lips of

to listen to with close attention

keep a stiff upper lip

Informal to avoid becoming frightened or discouraged under difficulties

smack one's lips

to express great satisfaction in anticipating or remembering something pleasant

Webster's New World College Dictionary Copyright © 2009 by Wiley Publishing, Inc., Cleveland, Ohio.
Used by arrangement with John Wiley & Sons, Inc.

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