rhizoverbBeta
DictionarylapsePassage of time
noun / verb

lapse

The passing of a period of time.

A lapse of several years separates the two photographs.

Etymology
lapseLatinslip; passage

Latin lapsus means a slipping or gliding movement. A lapse of time applies that motion to time passing away.

More examples

  • After a lapse of ten years, they meet again.
  • The long lapse between visits makes each reunion special.
  • Several months lapse before the next payment arrives.

Forms

lapse · lapses · lapsed · lapsing

Similar words

passage
Passage emphasizes time moving forward rather than a measured interval.
interval
Interval names the time separating two events, not its passing.
elapse
Elapse is the more usual verb for time passing.