Definition of Lip
Quick Meaning of Lip
One of the two soft, pink parts at the edge of the mouth used for eating, speaking, and kissing.
Detailed Definition of Lip
Either of the two soft, movable parts that form the edges of the mouth.
How to Pronounce Lip
Stress pattern: O (1-syllable word).
Tip: One short syllable. The 'i' sounds like short 'i' in 'sit' or 'bit', not like the long 'i' in 'like'.
Watch out: Sometimes pronounced /liːp/ with long vowel; should be short /lɪp/ like 'sit'.
Origin and Etymology of Lip
From Old English 'lippa', related to Germanic and Indo-European languages. Ancient etymology traces to root meaning 'to stick' or 'to lick'.
How to Use Lip in a Sentence
Each example shows “lip” with a CEFR level so learners can pick examples that match their fluency.
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“The baby has soft pink lips.”
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“She wore red lipstick on her upper lip.”
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“The actor moved his lips slightly as he read from the script.”
Synonyms and Antonyms of Lip
Common Synonyms for Lip
Smart Synonyms for Lip — When to Use Each
- mouth
- for the entire opening for eating
- labium
- technical or medical term used by doctors
- edge
- when describing the physical boundary of the mouth
Common Collocations with Lip
These phrases pair with “lip” in everyday English:
- upper lip
- lower lip
- red lips
- bite your lip
- read lips
Common Mistakes When Using Lip
Even fluent speakers slip up with “lip”. Here’s how to avoid the most common errors:
- ✗ Wrong: The child lips are chapped and dry.
- ✓ Correct: The child's lips are chapped and dry.
- Why: Use possessive 'child's' before 'lips'. The lips belong to the child.
- ✗ Wrong: She bit her lip when she was nervous yesterday.
- ✓ Correct: She bit her lip when she was nervous.
- Why: Use past tense 'was nervous' consistently; omit 'yesterday' as it is already implied by 'bit' (past tense).
Other Forms of Lip
- Noun: lip
Frequently Asked Questions About Lip
What is the meaning of "Lip"?
One of the two soft, pink parts at the edge of the mouth used for eating, speaking, and kissing.
How do you pronounce "Lip"?
The IPA is /lɪp/. One short syllable. The 'i' sounds like short 'i' in 'sit' or 'bit', not like the long 'i' in 'like'.
What part of speech is "Lip"?
"Lip" is a noun at A1 level (Common European Framework).
What are synonyms for "Lip"?
Common synonyms include mouth edge, oral margin, labium.
How do you use "Lip" in a sentence?
For example: "The baby has soft pink lips."