lappet moth
- n medium-sized hairy moths; larvae are lappet caterpillars
laparoscope
- n a slender endoscope inserted through an incision in the abdominal wall in order to examine the abdominal organs or to perform minor surgery
laparoscopic cholecystectomy
- n removal of the gall bladder through small punctures in the abdomen to permit the insertion of a laparoscope and surgical instruments
laparoscopy
- n laparotomy performed with a laparoscope that makes a small incision to examine the abdominal cavity (especially the ovaries and Fallopian tubes)
laparotomy
- n surgical incision into the abdominal wall; often done to examine abdominal organs
lapidarist
- n an expert on precious stones and the art of cutting and engraving them
lapidation
- n the act of pelting with stones; punishment inflicted by throwing stones at the victim (even unto death)
lapidator
- n an attacker who pelts the victim with stones (especially with intent to kill)
laplace
- n French mathematician and astronomer who formulated the nebular hypothesis concerning the origins of the solar system and who developed the theory of probability (1749-1827)
laportea canadensis
- n American perennial herb found in rich woods and provided with stinging hairs; provides fibers used for textiles
lapp
- n a member of an indigenous nomadic people living in northern Scandinavia and herding reindeer
- n the language of nomadic Lapps in northern Scandinavia and the Kola Peninsula