Word: Lace

Pronunciation

/leɪs/

Definitions

• Noun: A delicate fabric made by looping, twisting, or knitting thread in an open pattern, often used for trimming or fastening garments. Example: “She tied the laces on her running shoes.”
• Verb:
  • To fasten, secure, or tighten with a lace, especially referring to shoes. Example: “He laced up his boots before heading out.”
  • To weave, intertwine, or decorate something intricately with a lace or similar material. Example: “The tablecloth was beautifully laced with golden embroidery.”
  • To add a small amount of a substance, usually to enhance flavor or strength (e.g., alcohol). Example: “He laced his coffee with a dash of whiskey.”
  • In sports, to hit something with great force or speed. Example: “He laced the ball across the field for a home run.”

Phrases

• “Lace up your shoes”: To fasten one’s shoes using laces.
• “Lace into [someone/something]”: To attack or criticize harshly. Example: “She really laced into him for being late again.”
• “Laced with [substance]”: Containing or mixed with something else, often in small amounts. Example: “Her drink was laced with a hint of lemon.”

Example Sentences

• Noun: “The wedding dress featured intricate lace detailing along the bodice.”
• Verb: “He carefully laced the corset around her waist.”
• Verb (altered meaning): “The batter laced the ball into the gap for a double.”

Synonyms

• Thread
• Trim
• Fasten
• Secure
• Embroider (when used as a verb to decorate)
• Add (in the context of adding substances like alcohol)
• Braid (for the action of weaving threads intricately)