zap
6 synonyms for zap, grouped by meaning and by how common each one is.
Verb — To hit or destroy something suddenly with a burst of energy, electricity, or force (often used loosely, including in games or fiction).
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.
How to use zap
The word patterns that sound natural to a native speaker.
zap it in the microwave
zapped by lightning
zap the aliens
Casual, informal word — common in speech, comics, and games rather than formal writing.
Etymology
An imitative word from 1920s American English, invented to mimic the sound of a sudden electric burst — first popularized in comic strips.
Full origin of zap →Frequently asked questions
What does “zap” mean?
The word “zap” means to hit or destroy something suddenly with a burst of energy, electricity, or force (often used loosely, including in games or fiction). In plain terms, to strike or destroy with a quick burst of energy, or informally, to microwave something.
How do you pronounce “zap”?
“Zap” is pronounced zap (/zæp/ in IPA).
How do you use “zap” in a sentence?
Here is “zap” used in a sentence: “The alien zapped the spaceship with a laser beam.”
What part of speech is “zap”?
Depending on how it is used, “zap” can be a verb and a noun.
Where does the word “zap” come from?
The word “zap” dates back to around 1920. An imitative word from 1920s American English, invented to mimic the sound of a sudden electric burst — first popularized in comic strips.
How many meanings does “zap” have?
“Zap” has 3 distinct senses listed in this dictionary. The most common is: to hit or destroy something suddenly with a burst of energy, electricity, or force (often used loosely, including in games or fiction).
