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Leap

Definitions and Meaning in English

1. To jump or spring a great distance or height, typically with both feet leaving the ground.
2. To move suddenly or quickly from one place or condition to another.
3. A sudden or significant change, advancement, or increase.
4. A period of time in which significant progress or development occurs, such as a “leap year.”

History and Origin

The word “leap” comes from the Old English hleapan, meaning “to jump or spring.” It has roots in Germanic languages, with similar forms in Old High German (hleffan) and Dutch (leapen). The term “leap” has been used for centuries to describe both physical jumping and metaphorical movements or advances, such as in technological or intellectual leaps. Over time, it has come to represent both literal actions (like jumping) and figurative actions (such as making a significant advance).

Detailed Explanation

“Leap” is most commonly associated with the physical act of jumping or springing into the air, often with energy or suddenness. It can refer to a literal jump, such as when an athlete leaps to make a high jump or when an animal leaps to catch prey. Beyond this physical meaning, “leap” is also used metaphorically to describe a significant or rapid change, such as “a leap in technology” or “leap of faith,” representing bold, sudden actions or advancements. Additionally, the term can denote a large gap in time or events, such as “leap year,” which occurs every four years when February has 29 days.

Example Sentences

1. The frog leaped across the pond in a single bound.
2. He took a leap of faith when he decided to start his own business.
3. The athlete managed to leap over the hurdle effortlessly.
4. The company made a leap in innovation with its new product launch.
5. After years of hard work, she finally took a leap into the world of entrepreneurship.
6. The horse leapt gracefully over the fence during the competition.
7. The child leaped into his mother’s arms after a long day at school.
8. The breakthrough in science caused a leap in our understanding of the universe.
9. He made a giant leap in his career after moving to a new city.

Synonyms with Short Explanation

1. Jump – To push oneself off the ground or another surface using the muscles of the legs.
2. Spring – To leap or jump forward or upward with a sudden movement.
3. Bound – To jump or leap in a manner that involves a large or energetic movement.
4. Vault – To leap or spring over something, often using hands or legs for extra support.
5. Hop – A short, quick jump, often associated with small animals or quick movements.

Related Words with Short Explanation

1. Bounce – To rebound or spring back after hitting a surface, often associated with a leap or jump.
2. Soar – To fly or move upward rapidly, often used in the context of leaping or taking off.
3. Ascend – To rise or move upward, which can be a result of a leap or jump.
4. Progress – Forward movement or development, which can occur through significant leaps or advancements.
5. Surge – A sudden increase or upward movement, often linked to leaps in activity or performance.

More Matches with Short Explanation

1. Advance – To move forward or make progress, often quickly or suddenly.
2. Shift – A change in position or direction, which can be metaphorically described as a leap.
3. Escalate – To increase or rise rapidly, often referring to a leap in intensity or importance.
4. Breakthrough – A significant and sudden advance, often referring to a leap in scientific or technological knowledge.
5. Surprise – A sudden and unexpected event or action, sometimes linked to a leap in change or occurrence.

Antonyms

1. Fall
2. Descend
3. Linger
4. Stagnate
5. Retreat