Pronunciation: [lˈɛpt] (IPA) 
The word "leapt" is a variant spelling of "leaped" and is used in British English. It is pronounced /lɛpt/ with a long e sound followed by a p and a t. The "-ea-" in the spelling is pronounced as a short e sound. This spelling is derived from Middle English where the past tense of the verb "leap" was "lep" or "leep". Over time, the spelling changed to "leapt" to reflect the past tense pronunciation.
"Leapt" is the past tense and past participle form of the verb "leap". To leap means to jump or spring forcefully off the ground or another surface, propelled by the legs or a sudden burst of energy. This action involves leaving the ground with both feet and moving through the air before landing again.
The word "leapt" encompasses the act of propelling oneself in a swift and sudden manner, often in response to a stimulus or a desire to gain height or distance. It commonly implies a degree of force and dynamism, as the physical action of leaping involves a rapid and vigorous movement. This term can be applied to various contexts, ranging from literal physical jumps to metaphorical expressions.
In a literal sense, "leapt" can describe the action of animals or humans jumping over obstacles, such as leaping over a fence or across a river. It can also depict the act of jumping or springing as a form of celebration or excitement, as when someone leapt for joy.
Metaphorically, "leapt" can be used to describe sudden or unexpected changes or advancements, where one metaphorically jumps from one condition, situation, or level to another. For instance, if a company enjoyed a significant increase in profits, it could be said that its profits leapt or leapt forward.
In conclusion, "leapt" refers to the act of jumping or springing forcefully off the ground or another surface, denoting both physical and metaphorical leaps that involve a sudden, swift, and dynamic motion.
Did leap.
Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.
The word "leapt" is the past tense and past participle of the verb "leap". Its etymology can be traced back to the Old English word "leapan", which had the same meaning. In turn, "leapan" is believed to have derived from the Proto-Germanic word "hlaupan", meaning "to jump" or "to leap". This Proto-Germanic root has cognates in other Germanic languages such as German "laufen" (to run) and Dutch "lopen" (to walk). Ultimately, the origins of "leapt" can be traced back to the ancient Proto-Indo-European root "*kleu", meaning "to hear" or "to listen". The semantic connection between "listening" and "leaping" is not evident in modern English, but this connection can be observed in the related words in other Indo-European languages.
