lapse

/ˈlaps/

Latin lapsus, from labi to slip

noun

  1. a slight error typically due to forgetfulness or inattention

  2. a temporary deviation or fall especially from a higher to a lower state

  3. a becoming less : decline

a lapse in table manners

a lapse from grace

error mistake blunder slip lapse mean a departure from what is true, right, or proper. error suggests the existence of a standard or guide and a straying from the right course through failure to make effective use of this. mistake implies misconception or inadvertence and usually expresses less criticism than error.

verb

  1. to fall from an attained and usually high level (as of morals or manners) to one much lower; also : to depart from an accepted pattern or standard

  2. sink, slip

  3. to go out of existence : cease

lapsed into unconsciousness

noun

  1. the adiabatic rate of decrease of atmospheric temperature with increasing altitude