lab
7 synonyms and 0 antonyms for lab, grouped by meaning and by how common each one is.
Noun — A laboratory — a room or building equipped for scientific experiments, testing, or research.
Synonyms
Everyday swaps
Common words most readers know — safe in any writing.
Less common
Still standard English, but they carry more weight.
Rare, literary or technical
Precise, but they will stand out — check the sense before using one.
Etymology
Shortened from "laboratory."
Full origin of lab →Frequently asked questions
What does “lab” mean?
The word “lab” means a laboratory — a room or building equipped for scientific experiments, testing, or research. In plain terms, either a place for scientific work, or, casually, a Labrador dog.
How do you pronounce “lab”?
“Lab” is pronounced lab (/læːb/ in IPA).
How do you use “lab” in a sentence?
Here is “lab” used in a sentence: “The samples were sent to the lab for analysis.”
What is another word for “lab”?
Words with a similar meaning to “lab” include Llap.
What part of speech is “lab”?
“Lab” is a noun.
Is “lab” a common word?
“Lab” is a fairly common word in modern English, usually learned at around the B1 level.
How many meanings does “lab” have?
“Lab” has 2 distinct senses listed in this dictionary. The most common is: a laboratory — a room or building equipped for scientific experiments, testing, or research.
What is the difference between a lab and a laboratory?
There is no difference in meaning — 'lab' is simply the short, informal version of 'laboratory.' Both refer to a room or building fitted out for scientific experiments, testing, or research. 'Lab' is used in everyday speech and casual writing, while 'laboratory' sounds more formal or technical.
What are the different types of labs?
Labs are usually named for their field or function. Common ones include chemistry, biology, and physics labs in schools; medical or clinical labs that test blood and samples; research labs where new discoveries are made; and computer labs full of workstations. Each is equipped for its particular kind of work.
Does 'lab' have any other meanings?
Yes. Besides being short for 'laboratory,' 'Lab' is also a common nickname for the Labrador retriever, a popular breed of dog. Context makes the meaning clear: a scientist works in a lab, while a family might own a chocolate Lab. This dictionary entry covers the laboratory sense.