the front part from the waist to the knees of a person in a sitting position; the lap.

the part of the body between the ribs and the hips; the waist.

the side potion of a human or of an animal body.

the space beside one.

a taking another person into one's arms and pressing to the bosom in affection; an embrace.

a union or assemblage of a few persons.

(dance) a posture of holding lightly the waist with both the palms.