slap
8 synonyms for slap, grouped by meaning and by how common each one is.
Noun — A quick blow with the open hand.
Synonyms
Less common
Still standard English, but they carry more weight.
Rare, literary or technical
Precise, but they will stand out — check the sense before using one.
Synonyms by Meaning
1. noun
A quick blow with the open hand.
“The child got a slap on the hand for touching the hot oven.”
2. verb
To hit someone or something with an open hand.
“The goalkeeper slapped the ball away just before it crossed the line.”
How to use slap
The word patterns that sound natural to a native speaker.
slap someone
slap a fine on
slap on some paint
Etymology
From Middle English slappen, probably imitative of the sound itself.
Full origin of 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.
