slap

Reading level: hard

Estimated CEFR level: B2 — Upper-Intermediate

Estimated from word frequency; not an official CEFR classification.

Definition

  1. noun a blow from a flat object (as an open hand)
  2. noun the act of smacking something; a blow delivered with an open hand
  3. verb hit with something flat, like a paddle or the open hand

Etymology

From Middle English slappen, of uncertain origin, possibly imitative. Compare Low German Slappe (“slap”), whence also German Schlappe (“defeat”). Compare also Italian sleppa (“slap”).

In classic literature

Synonyms

smack

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