neap

¹

[neep]

adjective

1. designating tides midway between spring tides that attain the least height.

noun

1. neap tide.

neap

²

[neep]

noun

New England.

1. the pole or tongue of a cart, wagon, etc., drawn by two animals side by side.

neap

/ niːp /

adjective

1. of, relating to, or constituting a neap tide

noun

1. short for neap tide

Word History and Origins

Origin of neap¹

before 900; Middle English neep, Old English nēp-, in nēpflōd neap tide

Origin of neap²

1545–55 origin uncertain

Word History and Origins

Origin of neap¹

Old English, as in nēpflōd neap tide, of uncertain origin

Example Sentences

"It is dependent on good weather, neap tides and flight permits," Mr Mearns said.

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The neap tide swept us southward, pulling us past the Cape.

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The students then had to interpret the graph and answer questions like “On what range of days were there neap tides in this month?”

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In crossing, I found a most rapid tide, at least five or six knots at neap tides, and to pull against it was out of the question.

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It would not measure more than a league in length, but its breadth varied wonderfully, according as it was seen at high or low water, at spring tide or neap tide.

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