The word "lops" is spelled with the IPA phonetic transcription /lɒps/. This word refers to the irregular or unevenly cut ends of something, most commonly used in reference to hair or fabric. The "l" sound is pronounced as in "love," followed by the "o" sound as in "dot" and the "p" sound as in "pop." The "s" sound at the end is pronounced as in "bus." This spelling accurately represents the sounds in the word "lops" and can help with proper pronunciation.
Lops is a noun, primarily used in the plural form, that refers to the uneven tufts or locks of wool, hair, or fur that hang down over an animal's eyes, particularly those of sheep or certain dog breeds. These lops are typically found on the forehead area and may obstruct vision if not properly maintained. The term can also be used to describe the act or process of cutting or trimming away these overgrown locks to improve the animal's visibility.
Lops can also be used more broadly to describe any hanging or drooping mass that obstructs or partially covers something, such as long or untidy hair that falls into a person's eyes. It can also refer metaphorically to any type of disorderly or unruly appearance or behavior. For instance, someone with a disheveled appearance or a general air of untidiness might be described as having lops.
This term derives from the Old English "lopp" or "loppe," which means "to cut off" or "to prune." It highlights the action of removing or thinning out the overgrown locks or tufts that hang down over the eyes, enhancing visibility and tidiness. Lops, in the context of animals, are commonly addressed to ensure the welfare and proper care of the animal, promoting both vision and hygiene.
The etymology of the word "lops" is uncertain, but it is believed to have originated from a combination of Middle English and Old Norse.
In Middle English, "lops" referred to a tangled or hanging piece of something, particularly a branch or a lock of hair. It can be traced back to the Old Norse word "hlaup", which means a leap or a jump. The verb form "loping" was used to describe the action of a horse leaping or running with long, bounding strides. Over time, the meaning of "lops" extended to encompass the idea of something hanging or dangling.
It is important to note that various sources speculate different origins for the word "lops". Some suggest that it may have derived from Old English or Old High German, but the Old Norse connection appears to be the most widely accepted explanation.