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leap
/liːp/
a sudden jump or movement forward
The cat made a leap onto the fence.
The cat quickly jumped onto the fence.
general
to jump or move suddenly and quickly
She leaped over the puddle to avoid getting wet.
She jumped over the puddle to avoid getting wet.
Often used to describe a sudden, energetic movement.
general
a significant or sudden advance or improvement
The company made a leap in technology with its new product.
The company made a significant advance in technology with its new product.
Used metaphorically to describe progress or improvement.
Related Phrases
Pro Tip
Physical vs. Metaphorical Use
'Leap' can describe both physical jumps and metaphorical advances. Context helps determine the meaning.
Gold Rule
Verb vs. Noun
As a verb, 'leap' requires an object (e.g., 'leap over'). As a noun, it can stand alone (e.g., 'a leap of faith').
Word Origin
From Middle English 'lepen', from Old English 'hlēapan', meaning 'to jump or spring'. Related to Old Norse 'hlaupa' and German 'laufen' (to run).
Usage Notes
As a verb, 'leap' often implies a sudden, energetic movement. As a noun, it can refer to both a physical jump and a metaphorical advance.
Word Breakdown
leap
to jump or move suddenly
rootEnglish Dictionary