English dictionary, thesaurus, translations & etymology
FreeDict.com
noun

smacking

Smacking (noun) means the act of hitting someone with an open hand, especially as physical punishment. Example: “Several countries have banned the smacking of children entirely.”

noun
1
The act of hitting someone with an open hand, especially as physical punishment.
"Several countries have banned the smacking of children entirely."
adjective
1
Producing a sharp, resounding sound, like a slap.
"She gave him a smacking kiss on the cheek."

How to use smacking

Learner’s notes

In plain EnglishHitting with a sharp sound, or (as an adjective) loud and sharp-sounding.

UK vs US

In British English, "smacking" is commonly used for disciplining children (roughly equivalent to American "spanking").

Word forms

smackings plural

Study it as flashcards or scroll it in Flow — saved to your collection.
Test yourself on “smacking” A quick quiz — meaning, synonyms & usage

Fill the gap

Can you complete this real example?

Several countries have banned the _____ of children entirely.

Related words

Rhymes for smacking

See all rhymes for smacking →

Frequently asked questions

What does “smacking” mean?

The word “smacking” means the act of hitting someone with an open hand, especially as physical punishment. In plain terms, hitting with a sharp sound, or (as an adjective) loud and sharp-sounding.

How do you use “smacking” in a sentence?

Here is “smacking” used in a sentence: “Several countries have banned the smacking of children entirely.”

What part of speech is “smacking”?

Depending on how it is used, “smacking” can be a noun and an adjective.

How many meanings does “smacking” have?

“Smacking” has 2 distinct senses listed in this dictionary. The most common is: the act of hitting someone with an open hand, especially as physical punishment.

People also searched

Definitions: FreeDict original editorial