WordGarden.iolab
B1Pronunciation
UK
- /lˈæb/
US
- /ˈlæb/
Meanings
Noun
a laboratory where scientific testing, experiments, or analysis are done
a class session focused on practical experimental work, especially in science
a Labrador retriever
Beyond the definition
A "lab" is usually short for laboratory, a room set up for scientific experiments, research, or teaching. The meaning has also grown wider. People now use it for other special workspaces where testing, learning, or making things happens, such as a computer lab at school.
You might work in a chemistry lab, run tests in a medical lab, or study in a language lab. Sometimes the word is used more loosely, as in "innovation lab," for a team or place trying out new ideas. In a very different sense, "Lab" is also a common short form of Labrador Retriever, a well-known dog breed.
The word "lab" originally comes from the first syllable of "laboratory," a place specifically designed for scientific research, experimentation, and analysis. Traditionally, you might picture a room filled with beakers, microscopes, and scientists in white coats—a place where discoveries are made through careful observation. For example: "She spent years in the lab perfecting her formula."
Over time, the meaning of "lab" has broadened. Any dedicated workspace focused on practical work, learning, or development can now be called a lab. A school might have a computer lab for coding, an art lab for painting, or a language lab for practicing pronunciation. The term is also a staple in the business world. An "R&D lab" (Research and Development) focuses on creating new products, while a "living lab" is a real-world environment where new technologies are tested with actual users. You might even encounter an "idea lab" for brainstorming or a "policy lab" for solving social problems.
Beyond the world of work and science, "lab" is the universally recognized nickname for the Labrador Retriever. This breed is famous for its friendly nature and intelligence. So, while one "lab" might be a place of sterile equipment and high-tech research, another "lab" might be a wagging tail waiting for you at home. Whether literal or figurative, a "lab" represents an environment of learning and creation—or a beloved member of the family.
Examples
- 1
Laboratory safety
The students wore safety glasses in the lab.
- 2
Research workplace
She works in a research lab at the university.
- 3
Medical testing
The nurse sent my blood sample to the lab.
- 4
Test results
We should get the lab results tomorrow.
- Phraselab results
information from medical tests done in a lab
More examplesFewer examples
- 5
Practical class
My chemistry lab meets on Tuesday afternoons.
- 6
Class partner
Ask your lab partner to check your measurements.
- 7
School computing
The school’s computer lab is open after classes.
- 8
Food technology
The company is testing lab-grown meat in a few restaurants.
- Phraselab-grown
made or developed in a lab, not grown naturally
- 9
Dog breed
They adopted a friendly black Lab from the shelter.
See also
Similar
- laboratory
- research facility
Shades of meaning
- wet laboratory
- dry laboratory
- testing facility
Contrast
- field site
- classroom
Do not confuse
- Labrador retriever
Used with (collocations)
- science lab
- computer lab
- lab coat
- lab results
Explore
Forms and spellings
1 form open this card.
Main spelling
- labnoun