What does lipping mean?
Lipping is a relatively uncommon word with two distinct kinds of use. As a noun, it denotes the lip, rim, or raised edge of a vessel, cavity, or manufactured object, including an edge that projects beyond the surrounding surface. In descriptions of metalwork, jewelry, clocks, ceramics, and similar objects, the term may refer to a narrow ornamental or protective strip applied around an edge. As a verb form, lipping means kissing and is now chiefly informal or dated in isolation. The noun and verbal senses reflect the two established uses of its root, lip: the edge of the mouth or mouth-like projection, and the act of putting one's lips against something. Although "lipping" adds little that cannot be said more simply with "rim," "edge," or "kissing" in many contexts, it is useful when describing a specifically projecting or finished edge. The word therefore survives most prominently in specialized descriptions of objects and their construction.
The lip, rim, or raised edge of a vessel, opening, or manufactured object, especially a projecting or ornamental edge.
"The restorer repaired the gold lipping around the edge of the clock case."
Chiefly used in descriptions of objects, craftsmanship, construction, and decorative finishes.
Kissing; touching or pressing the lips against someone or something.
"Two teenagers were lipping behind the bleachers."
A present participle or gerund of "lip." The isolated form is informal and uncommon in contemporary English.
The plural is uncommon and is used when separate projecting or ornamental edges are being referred to.
"The restorer repaired the gilt lipping on each of the clock cases."
A cup's edge and a stolen kiss: one small word covers both.
Reviewed by Deb Chak, Editor. AI-assisted content curated by RJS Tech Solutions LLP.
Etymology of lipping
The forms derive from the English word lip, which was attested in Old English as lippa and refers to the edge of the mouth or an edge resembling it. The noun lipping was formed with the suffix -ing, while the kissing sense uses the ordinary gerund and present-participle formation of the verb lip. The modern word lipping developed from these established meanings of its Germanic root rather than from a separate word.
How lipping is actually used
The noun is uncommon in general speech but appears in descriptions of vessels, decorative work, manufacturing, and craft. The kissing sense is informal and marked; it is much less usual in modern English than forms such as "kissing" or "making out."
Easily confused with lipping
Lipping can denote a vessel's rim or the act of kissing, whereas slipping means losing one's footing or moving unexpectedly.