clap etymology

Etymology

The word "clap" is believed to originate from the Middle English word "clappen," which itself is derived from the Old English word "clappan." The Old English term is thought to have come from the Proto-Germanic word "*klappōn," which means "to strike or to beat."

Meaning

The primary meaning of "clap" is to make a sharp, loud sound by striking one's hands together. This can be done as an expression of excitement, approval, or as a form of applause.

Origin

The use of clapping as a form of applause can be traced back to ancient Greece, where it was customary for audiences to clap their hands to show their appreciation for performances. This practice was later adopted by the Romans, and eventually became widespread throughout Europe and beyond.

In the 19th century, the term "clap" began to be used as a slang term for syphilis, a sexually transmitted disease that causes painful swelling of the lymphatic glands. This usage is believed to have originated from the similarity between the sound of clapping and the sound of the swelling caused by the disease.

Variations

There are several variations of the word "clap," including:

• Clapping: The act of clapping one's hands together.
• Clapboard: A type of wooden board used to create a clapping sound in musical instruments.
• Clapper: A device that strikes a bell or gong to produce a sound.
• Claptrap: Meaningless or empty words or actions.

Examples of Usage

• "The audience clapped enthusiastically for the performance."
• "She clapped her hands in joy when she heard the news."
• "The doctor diagnosed her with clap after examining the swollen glands."
• "The politician's speech was full of claptrap and empty promises."

clap relate terms

• clapper

  Etymology The word clapper comes from the Middle English word clappen meaning to s

• clap

  Etymology The word clap is believed to originate from the Middle English word clappen

• clapperclaw

  Etymology Middle English clapperclawe clappen to strike or clap clawe a claw

• clap

  Etymology The word clap is believed to originate from the Middle English word clappen

• claw

  Etymology Claw derives from the Middle English clawe which in turn originated from th

• claque

  Etymology French from Middle French claque from claquer to clap applaud Meaning

• plaudit

  Etymology The word plaudit derives from the Latin term plaudō which means to clap

• explode

  Etymology Explode is derived from the Latin term explodere which means to drive out

• motion

  Etymology The word motion comes from the Latin word motus which means movement or

• noise

  Etymology Old French noyse from Latin nausea seasickness nausea Meaning Any