slap
Slap (noun) means a quick blow with the open hand. Example: “She gave him a slap across the face for the insult.”
How to use slap
Learner’s notesIn plain EnglishA sharp open-handed hit, or by extension, to do something quickly and carelessly or to impose something (like a fine) abruptly.
Word forms
- Singular
- slaps
- Plural
- slaps
- Past tense
- slapped
- Comparative
- more slap
- Superlative
- most slap
Fill the gap
Can you complete this real example?
She gave him a _____ across the face for the insult.
Etymology
From Middle English slappen, probably imitative of the sound itself.
Related words
Rhymes for slap
See all rhymes for slap →Frequently asked questions
What does “slap” mean?
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.
How do you pronounce “slap”?
“Slap” is pronounced slap (/slæp/ in IPA).
How do you use “slap” in a sentence?
Here is “slap” used in a sentence: “She gave him a slap across the face for the insult.”
What part of speech is “slap”?
Depending on how it is used, “slap” can be a noun and a verb.
Where does the word “slap” come from?
The word “slap” comes from Middle English. From Middle English slappen, probably imitative of the sound itself.
Is “slap” a common word?
“Slap” is a fairly common word in modern English, usually learned at around the B2 level.
How many meanings does “slap” have?
“Slap” has 4 distinct senses listed in this dictionary. The most common is: a quick blow with the open hand.
What is the difference between "slap" and "smack"?
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.
What is the difference between a "slap" and a "punch"?
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.
How is "slap" used in phrases like "slapped with a fine"?
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.
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