Definition of Leap (meaning 1 of 2 — verb)
Quick Meaning of Leap
to move through the air suddenly and forcefully from one place to another
Detailed Definition of Leap
to jump or spring a long distance with energy
How to Pronounce Leap
Stress pattern: O (1-syllable word).
Tip: Say it as one sound: /liːp/. The 'ea' makes a long 'ee' sound.
Other Meanings of Leap
“Leap” has 2 distinct meanings in English. You’re viewing meaning #1; here are the other 1:
#2 Leap as a noun
a big jump through the air, or a sudden improvement or change in progress
a leap of faith
Origin and Etymology of Leap
Old English hlēapan (to run, jump), related to German laufen
How to Use Leap in a Sentence
Each example shows “leap” in the meaning “to move through the air suddenly and forcefully…”, with a CEFR level so learners can pick examples that match their fluency.
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“The cat leapt onto the table.”
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“She leaped over the fence to escape.”
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“The company leaped forward with innovative technology.”
Synonyms and Antonyms of Leap
Common Synonyms for Leap
Smart Synonyms for Leap — When to Use Each
- bound
- more energetic, springy
- spring
- sudden, powerful motion
- vault
- over obstacles with hands
Antonyms of Leap
Common Collocations with Leap
These phrases pair with “leap” in everyday English:
- leap forward
- leap over
- leap into action
- leap of faith
- leap at the chance
Common Mistakes When Using Leap
Even fluent speakers slip up with “leap”. Here’s how to avoid the most common errors:
- ✗ Wrong: She leaped a high wall
- ✓ Correct: She leaped over a high wall
- Why: Leap requires a direction preposition to show movement across or over something
- ✗ Wrong: The business leaping forward last year
- ✓ Correct: The business leapt forward last year
- Why: Past tense needs -ed/-t form; present progressive uses -ing form
Words Confused With Leap
- Leap vs Jump: Jump is general upward movement; leap suggests longer distance or more dramatic action
Other Forms of Leap
Frequently Asked Questions About Leap
What is the meaning of "Leap"?
to move through the air suddenly and forcefully from one place to another
How do you pronounce "Leap"?
The IPA is /liːp/. Say it as one sound: /liːp/. The 'ea' makes a long 'ee' sound.
What part of speech is "Leap"?
"Leap" is a verb at B2 level (Common European Framework).
What are synonyms for "Leap"?
Common synonyms include jump, spring, bound.
How do you use "Leap" in a sentence?
For example: "The cat leapt onto the table."