lap pool

Meanings

1. 1nouncountable

   A swimming pool that is long and narrow, designed for swimming from one end to the other.

   Grammar: Countable: use 'a lap pool' or 'lap pools' for more than one.

   Patterns

   • a lap pool
   • swim in a lap pool
   • build a lap pool

   The gym has a 25-meter lap pool, so I can swim before work.

   They installed a lap pool in the backyard for daily exercise.

   Lap pools are usually deeper at one end and have lane markers on the bottom.

2. 2nouncountable

   A pool in a private home or hotel used mainly for swimming lengths rather than for play.

   Grammar: Often used with 'small' or 'private' to contrast with a large public pool.

   Patterns

   • a small lap pool
   • a private lap pool
   • a heated lap pool

   Their new house has a small lap pool and a hot tub.

   The hotel's lap pool is open from 6 a.m. to 10 p.m.

   A lap pool takes less space than a full-size swimming pool.

Word forms

Common combinations

swim in a lap pool

She swims in a lap pool three times a week.

a 25-meter lap pool

The school has a 25-meter lap pool for competitions.

build a lap pool

They plan to build a lap pool next to the house.

a heated lap pool

The spa has a heated lap pool for winter guests.

Synonyms and how they differ

swimming pool

This is the general term for any pool for swimming; 'lap pool' specifically suggests a long, narrow design for swimming lengths.

length pool

Common in British English for a pool used for swimming lengths; 'lap pool' is more common in American English.

Word family

lap noun

One length of a pool or track; also the flat area on your legs when you sit.

pool noun

A small area of water, especially one made for swimming.

lapper noun

A person who swims laps; less common than 'swimmer'.

Commonly confused: lap pool or lap lane?

Practice

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