WordGarden.ioslap
B2Pronunciation
UK
- /slˈæp/
US
- /ˈslæp/
Meanings
Verb
to hit someone sharply with an open hand
to put, throw, or apply something quickly and roughly
(slang)to be very good, exciting, or satisfying, especially in slangy praise of music or media
Noun
an open-handed blow, especially to a person
Beyond the definition
A slap is not just a quick hit. Most often, it means striking someone or something with the open palm of your hand. You might picture someone slapping a table in anger, or giving a friend a light slap on the back after a joke. The word also works in less direct ways. Someone can "slap down" an idea or an offer by rejecting it quickly and firmly. It can describe sharp contact in the world around us too, like waves slapping against a boat or rain slapping a window. Whether it is physical or figurative, the word usually suggests something quick, sharp, and forceful.
At its core, "slap" refers to striking someone or something quickly and forcefully with the flat of the hand. This action is usually impulsive, born of anger, frustration, or even playful affection. When you hear that someone "slapped the table in frustration," it paints a vivid picture of a sudden, loud burst of energy.
Beyond the physical, "slap" serves as a powerful metaphor for rejection and insult. To "slap down" an idea is to dismiss it firmly and immediately, often suggesting a level of impatience or disrespect. Similarly, a "slap in the face" is a common idiom describing an unexpected sting of rejection or a bitter disappointment. Figuratively, the word captures the sound and feel of forceful contact in the environment, like heavy rain slapping against a windowpane or a cold wind slapping your cheeks.
You will also encounter "slap" in specialized contexts. "Slapstick" comedy, for instance, refers to a genre of humor based on exaggerated physical horseplay. If someone receives a "slap on the wrist," it means their punishment was incredibly mild compared to their mistake. In recent years, the word has even entered the world of slang: when someone says a song or a meal "slaps," they mean it is exceptionally good or impressive. From physical strikes to modern praise, "slap" is a small word that packs a significant punch!
Examples
- 1
Safety warning
She slapped his hand away when he reached for the hot pan.
- 2
Walking sound
My wet sandals slapped against the pavement as I walked home.
- 3
Quick labeling
He slapped a label on the box and pushed it across the counter.
- Patternslap X on Y
put X on Y quickly, with little care
- 4
Official penalty
The company was slapped with a heavy fine for breaking safety rules.
- Patternbe slapped with + punishment/charge
be given it suddenly
More examplesFewer examples
- 5
Playful touch
After the goal, his teammate gave him a playful slap on the back.
- 6
Figurative insult
Her remark about my accent felt like a slap in the face.
- Phrasea slap in the face
something that feels very insulting or hurtful
- 7
Light punishment
A $20 fine for that offense is just a slap on the wrist.
- Phrasea slap on the wrist
a punishment that is too light
See also
Forms and spellings
4 forms open this card.
Main spelling
- slapnounverbadverb
Forms
- slappedpast tenseverbnounadverb
- slapping-ing formverbnounadverb
- slapspluralnounverbadverb