Pronunciation: [lˈap ˈʌp] (IPA) 
The phrase "lap up" is spelled with a "p" at the end to reflect its pronunciation, which is /læp ʌp/. The first part of the phrase, "lap," is pronounced with a short "a" sound as in "cat," and a "p" is added at the end to create the verb "lap up," meaning to drink eagerly or enthusiastically. Despite its seemingly unusual spelling, the pronunciation of "lap up" is easy to understand and remember once one grasps its phonetic makeup.
The term "lap up" is a phrasal verb that can have various meanings depending on the context. The most common definition of "lap up" is to enthusiastically or eagerly accept or enjoy something. It implies a sense of satisfaction or delight experienced by the individual involved. It often implies that the person is fully engaging in or appreciating a specific situation or experience.
In a literal sense, "lap up" can refer to the action of an animal, particularly a cat or a dog, drinking liquid from a dish by bending down and using its tongue to drink the liquid in an upward motion.
Figuratively, "lap up" can be used to describe the action of someone responding positively and enthusiastically to a compliment, praise, or attention. It implies that the person is accepting and savoring the positive feedback or admiration.
Furthermore, "to lap up" can also mean to take pleasure in or indulge fully in something, usually without much thought or restraint. It suggests a sense of relishing or thoroughly enjoying a particular experience, activity, or opportunity.
Overall, "lap up" conveys a sense of eager reception, appreciation, or enjoyment, whether it be for physical actions, emotional responses, or experiences in general.
The word "lap up" is a phrasal verb that means to eagerly and enthusiastically accept or enjoy something. The etymology of "lap up" can be traced back to the Middle English period.
The verb "lap" in Old English (læppa) meant to lick or scoop up liquid with the tongue, especially like a cat or a dog. It originated from the Proto-Germanic word "lappōną". Over time, this verb evolved and gained various meanings, including drinking or eating eagerly and softly splashing against a surface.
The addition of the preposition "up" in the phrase "lap up" emphasizes the idea of eagerly consuming or enjoying something. This usage of "lap up" emerged in the early 20th century and is often used metaphorically to express an enthusiastic response or enjoyment of things like compliments, praise, attention, or even opportunities.
