What does lapse mean?
A “lapse” is a failure to maintain a condition, standard, or commitment, such as a lapse in concentration, judgment, or good behavior. As a noun, it can describe an individual mistake, a decline in quality, or the passage of time, especially when something expected has been forgotten or allowed to expire. As a verb, “to lapse” means to stop being valid, to deteriorate, or to return to an earlier state. The word often suggests a process that was once stable but has been interrupted, whether by carelessness, neglect, changing circumstances, or the passage of time. In formal and legal contexts, it can also mean that a privilege, permission, or agreement has ended because its required renewal or condition was not met. Although it can be used for serious moral or administrative failures, “lapse” often implies a lapse that is limited or potentially reversible.
An instance of failing to maintain a condition, standard, or course of action; also, an error, decline, or failure of attention.
"The report described a serious lapse in safety procedures."
Often used for a failure that is temporary, recoverable, or limited in scope, though it can also describe serious neglect or repeated misconduct.
To fail to continue, deteriorate, revert to a former condition, or become invalid through the passage of time.
"The subscription will lapse unless it is renewed by the end of the month."
Common in formal contexts concerning agreements, subscriptions, standards, attention, and conduct.
The standard plural is “lapses.”
"The organization has made several lapses in following its own procedures."
A lapse can be a brief failure of attention, a moral backsliding, or the quiet passage of time—a single word carrying remarkably different consequences.
Reviewed by Deb Chak, Editor. AI-assisted content curated by RJS Tech Solutions LLP.
Where does lapse come from?
The word entered Middle English from Old French, ultimately from Latin “lapsus,” the past participle of “labere,” meaning “to glide” or “to slip.” The core idea is therefore that of slipping, falling away, or passing by. Modern uses developed from the notion of a condition, right, or person slipping back or ceasing to be maintained. Related English words include “elapse,” “relapse,” and “prolapse,” all associated with the same Latin root.
Related word forms
How lapse is actually used
The word is neutral to mildly formal in general use. A lapse in attention or memory is usually minor and temporary, while a lapse in standards or conduct can imply negligence, repeated failure, or moral decline. In legal and formal contexts, “lapse” can also refer to the expiry or termination of a right, permission, or arrangement.
Easily confused with lapse
A lapse is a failure or decline that may be partial or temporary, whereas a collapse usually means a complete or sudden breakdown.
To lapse is to stop maintaining or pursuing something, while to relax is to reduce tension or become less strict.