slap etymology

Etymology

The word "slap" is believed to have originated from the Middle English word "slappen", which itself is thought to have derived from the Old Norse word "slapp", meaning "to strike".

Meaning

A slap is a sharp blow or strike, typically with the open hand or a flat object, delivered in a quick, sudden manner. It can also be used figuratively to describe a sudden or unexpected setback or insult.

Origin

The origin of the word "slap" can be traced back to the early 13th century, when the Middle English word "slappen" was first recorded. This word was used to describe both the act of striking someone with the open hand and the sound that was made when doing so.

Over time, the word "slap" gradually replaced the Old Norse word "slapp" in most contexts, although the latter is still occasionally used in some Scandinavian languages.

The word "slap" has been used in a variety of contexts throughout its history, including:

  • As a noun, to refer to the act or sound of striking someone with the open hand
  • As a verb, to describe the act of striking someone in this manner
  • As an adjective, to describe something that is sudden, unexpected, or humiliating
  • As a slang term, to refer to something that is very good or successful

Today, the word "slap" is still commonly used in all of these contexts, and it remains an important part of the English language.

slap relate terms

  • slap

    Etymology The word slap is believed to have originated from the Middle English word sl

  • clap

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

  • slapdash

    Etymology The word slapdash originated in the 16th century a combination of the words

  • slap

    Etymology The word slap is believed to have originated from the Middle English word sl

  • dash

    Etymology The word dash comes from the Old French word dascher which means to strik

  • bang

    Etymology The word bang has several possible etymologies Onomatopoeia It may have o

  • smack

    Etymology The word smack has multiple origins Old English smæcc a taste a kis

  • bolt

    Etymology The word bolt comes from the Old English word bolt which means a short t

  • buffer

    Etymology Middle English buffer from Anglo French buffeter to strike from Mi

  • lollipop

    Etymology The word lollipop is derived from the term lolly a regional British term

  • slam

    Etymology The word slam has multiple etymological origins Middle English slemmen

  • coup

    Etymology The word coup is derived from the French verb cooper meaning to cut or

  • strike

    Etymology The word strike comes from the Middle English word striken which is derive

  • cuff

    Etymology and Origin Cuff is derived from the Anglo Norman word cuffe meaning part

  • blow

    Etymology The word blow comes from the Middle English word blowe which in turn comes