lab
lab
Lab (noun) means a laboratory — a room or building equipped for scientific experiments, testing, or research. Example: “The samples were sent to the lab for analysis.”
noun
1
A laboratory — a room or building equipped for scientific experiments, testing, or research.
"The samples were sent to the lab for analysis."
"She spends most of her week in the lab running trials."
"The students put on goggles before entering the chemistry lab."
2
Informal short form of Labrador retriever, a popular breed of dog.
"Their lab bounded across the park to fetch the ball."
"Labs are known for being friendly and easy to train."
"Our neighbour's yellow lab greets everyone at the gate with a wagging tail."
How to use lab
Learner’s notesIn plain EnglishEither a place for scientific work, or, casually, a Labrador dog.
When to use it
Very informal in both senses — 'laboratory' and 'Labrador retriever' are the full forms in formal writing.
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Word forms
- Plural
- labs
- Third person singular
- labs
- Past tense
- labbed
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The samples were sent to the _____ for analysis.
Etymology
Shortened from "laboratory."
Synonyms
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Rhymes for lab
See all rhymes for 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.
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