to clap
Pronunciation
/ˈkɫæp/

Definition & Meaning of "clap"in English

to clap
01

to strike the palms of one's hands together forcefully, usually to show appreciation or to attract attention

Intransitive
to clap definition and meaning
Grammatical Information
Composition
Simple
Action verb
Regular
Present tense
clap
3rd person singular
claps
Present participle
clapping
Past simple
clapped
Past participle
clapped
Examples
The audience clapped enthusiastically after the concert.
1.1

to applaud or express approval by striking the palms of the hands together

Transitive: to clap an action or achievement
to clap definition and meaning
Examples
They clapped the actor's efforts as he took his final bow on stage.
02

to place or position something quickly, forcefully, or abruptly

Transitive: to clap sth somewhere
Examples
He clapped the book on the table and rushed out of the room.
03

(of birds) to flap their wings audibly

Transitive: to clap wings
Examples
The seagulls clapped their wings as they soared above the ocean waves.
04

to give a firm and friendly pat or slap on someone's back or shoulder as a sign of encouragement or congratulations

Transitive: to clap sb on their back or shoulder
Examples
After scoring the winning goal, his teammates clapped him on the back.
05

to defeat someone, especially in a game or competitive setting

Slang

What does "to clap" mean in competitive setting?

It is used to describe defeating someone, especially in a game or competitive setting, often in a decisive or humiliating manner. Players typically say they "clapped" an opponent after a quick elimination, a one sided match, or a play that leaves the other team looking foolish. The term originated in online gaming and streaming communities during the 2010s, where "clap" evokes the sound of a single decisive hit or the metaphorical applause for the winner's dominance.

Examples
Do n't try him; he 'll clap you fast.
Clap
01

a sudden, loud burst of sound produced by a lightning discharge during a storm

Grammatical Information
Animacy status
Inanimate
Composition
Simple
Countable
Plural form
claps
Examples
A deafening clap of thunder shook the windows as the storm rolled in.
02

a sharp, sudden noise made when two objects strike each other, often repeated

Examples
There was a clap as the book fell to the floor.
03

a sexually transmitted infection caused by bacteria, leading to pain when urinating and discomfort around the urethra

Examples
He visited the clinic after noticing symptoms of the clap.
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