Lapp

[ lap ]

noun

, plural Lapps, (especially collectively) Lapp.

1. Also called Lap·land·er [lap, -lan-der, -l, uh, n-]. Sami ( def 1 ).
2. Also called Lap·pish [lap, -ish]. Sami ( def 2 ).

Lapp

/ læp /

noun

1. a member of a nomadic people living chiefly in N Scandinavia and the Kola Peninsula of Russia
2. the language of this people, belonging to the Finno-Ugric family

adjective

1. of or relating to this people or their language

Sensitive Note

Though Lapp, Laplander, and Lappish are still in use, the people themselves consider these terms to be offensive. They use the name Sami. The reason for the perceived offensiveness of these terms is their possible etymology from an Old Swedish word meaning “piece or patch,” alluding to the patched clothes that the impoverished Sami wore in the past. Lapland is still the acceptable name for the region inhabited by the Sami, though the Sami call it Sapmi.

Usage

The indigenous people of Lapland prefer to be called Sami , although Lapp is still in widespread use

Word History and Origins

Origin of Lapp¹

First recorded in 1855–60; origin uncertain; possibly from Old Swedish lapper “piece” (the Sami were so poor that they had to patch their clothes); or originally a term of contempt; compare Middle High German lappe “simpleton”; perhaps of Finnish origin; compare Finnish lappalainen “Lapp,” Lappi “Lapland” (meaning “northern wilderness”)

Example Sentences

For Haakon had married Gunilda, a rich maiden of one of the richest Lapp families, and she had brought these to his tent.

From Project Gutenberg

“Myself,” answered the Lapp; and taking a spoonful of the boiling liquid he flung it in her face.

From Project Gutenberg

A Lapp tale presents this mysterious lapse of time as the sequel of an adventure similar to that of Ulysses with Polyphemus.

From Project Gutenberg

For Eva had on a ski-dress with a very small skirt, trousers, and a Lapp fur cloak.

From Project Gutenberg

After procuring my Lapp outfit, I thought I would try to dress myself in my new garments.

From Project Gutenberg