Standard Lemma guide

lase

verb · 3 senses · updated from the 2026-07-25 local source snapshot

Definitions and examples are grouped by meaning. Pronunciation, history, word forms, translations, descendants, synonyms, antonyms, derived terms, and related words appear whenever the source provides them.

Sound

Pronunciation

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  • /ˈleɪz/
  • US: Recorded audio is listed in the source snapshot.
  • homophone: lays
  • homophone: laze
  • rhymes with -eɪz
  • CMU ARPABET: L EY1 Z Digits mark lexical stress: 1 primary, 2 secondary, 0 unstressed.

1

verb

Meaning 1

To use a laser beam on, as for cutting.

Definition source: English Wiktionary via Wiktextract

Usage: transitive

Examples

  • The surgeon lased the elongated soft palate, cutting off the excess tissue and stopping the blood flow in one swipe.
  • The physical chemist lased the atoms as they passed between the electrodes to study their motion.

Meaning relationships

Synonyms: none provided

Antonyms: none provided

2

verb

Meaning 2

To use a laser beam on, as for targeting or rangefinding.

Definition source: English Wiktionary via Wiktextract

Usage: transitive

Examples

  • The commander lased the target across the valley.

Meaning relationships

Synonyms: none provided

Antonyms: none provided

3

verb

Meaning 3

To operate as a laser; to release coherent light due to stimulation.

Definition source: English Wiktionary via Wiktextract

Usage: intransitive

Examples

  • Once enough of the gas particles are in a higher energy state, they will begin to lase and give off a coherent beam.

Meaning relationships

Synonyms: none provided

Antonyms: none provided

History

Etymology

Back-formation from laser, as if removing -er. Compare mase.