lip

B1 · Intermediate Countable noun

n. the top edge of a cup, bowl, or other container.

n. the projecting rim or edge of a vessel or open container.

“Be careful not to chip the lip of that expensive crystal glass.”

“The jug features a narrow lip designed to prevent splashing while pouring heavy liquids.”

B2 · Upper Intermediate Uncountable noun Informal

n. rude or disrespectful speech, especially to someone in authority.

n. impudent or disrespectful speech; backtalk.

“The teacher told the student she didn't want any more lip from him.”

“The manager warned the employee that further lip regarding the new policy would result in a formal disciplinary hearing.”

B2 · Upper Intermediate Countable noun Geology

n. the very edge of a steep place, like a cliff or a crater.

n. the edge or margin of a steep geographical feature or cavity.

“They stood at the lip of the canyon and looked down at the river.”

“The hikers halted at the lip of the volcanic crater, mesmerised by the steam rising from the vents below.”

C2 · Proficiency Uncountable noun Music Technical

n. the strength or position of a musician's mouth when playing a wind instrument.

n. the condition or strength of a wind instrumentalist's embouchure.

“The trumpet player lost his lip after not practicing for a month.”

“Developing a strong lip is essential for horn players to maintain pitch stability during long orchestral performances.”

C1 · Advanced Literary

v. to touch something with your lips or to flow against an edge.

v. to touch or lap against a surface; in sports, to hit the edge of a hole.

“The waves gently lipped the side of the wooden boat.”

“The golfer groaned as his birdie putt lipped the cup but failed to drop in.”