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Clapback
01
a sharp or witty reply to criticism or insult
Slang
Grammatical Information
Animacy status
Abstract
Composition
Compound
Countable
Plural form
clapbacks
What does "clapback" mean in social slang?
The term "clapback" refers to a sharp, quick, and often witty response to criticism, insult, or "shade." The structure combines "clap" (emphasizing force or impact) with "back," indicating a return reply. It is commonly used in online and pop culture contexts where someone defends themselves with a strong, often humorous comeback that shuts down the original attack.
Examples
His clapback to the rude comment was hilarious.
Lexical Tree
clapback
clap
back
