Slapped

/ˈslæpt/ verb

Definition

Hit someone quickly with the palm of your hand, usually on the face, as a sign of anger or disrespect.

Etymology

From Middle Dutch 'slappe' or similar Germanic sources. The origin is likely imitative—the word itself sounds like the action it describes.

Kelly Says

Most onomatopoeia (sound-words) are obvious, but 'slap' is subtle—it doesn't just sound like a hit, the 'sl-' sound mimics the starting rush of motion before the impact.

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