Word of the Day: slap

The word "slap" is very similar to the word "hit." It's a verb that's often used for the type of hitting that involves punishment. If a person does something wrong, he or she might get slapped.

• Gloria slapped a man who said something mean about her. She slapped him in the face and it surprised everyone who saw her do it.
• When I walked outside the building, the cold air slapped me in the face.
• The judge slapped a fine on the defendant because of his misbehavior in the courtroom.
• To all of us who worked with him on the project, our coworker's criticism felt like a slap in the face.

You can also use the word "slap" for the application of force or sudden, strong movement:

• Tony slapped a hundred dollars down on the bar and ordered drinks for everyone.
• A bricklayer slaps mortar on top of bricks when building a wall.
• A big gust of wind caused the door to suddenly slap shut.
• The members of the team slapped Albert on the back and gave him high fives after his third homeroom of the baseball game.