slap

The word “slap” means a quick blow with the open hand. In plain terms, a sharp open-handed hit, or by extension, to do something quickly and carelessly or to impose something (like a fine) abruptly.

“Slap” is pronounced slap (/slæp/ in IPA).

Here is “slap” used in a sentence: “She gave him a slap across the face for the insult.”

Depending on how it is used, “slap” can be a noun and a verb.

The word “slap” comes from Middle English. From Middle English slappen, probably imitative of the sound itself.

“Slap” is a fairly common word in modern English, usually learned at around the B2 level.

“Slap” has 4 distinct senses listed in this dictionary. The most common is: a quick blow with the open hand.

Both mean a sharp blow, but a "slap" specifically uses the open, flat hand, while a "smack" can be delivered with the hand or a flat object. In British English, "smack" is also commonly used for striking a child as punishment.

A "slap" is struck with the open, flat hand, while a "punch" is delivered with a closed fist. A punch is generally more forceful and intended to injure, whereas a slap is more often used to sting, shock, or insult.

In this use, "slap" means to impose a penalty, charge, or restriction on someone, as in being "slapped with a fine" or "slapped with a lawsuit." It suggests the penalty is imposed suddenly and without the person's agreement.