1 clap | Definition of clap

clap

verb
\ ˈklap How to pronounce clap (audio) \
clapped also clapt; clapping

Definition of clap

 (Entry 1 of 3)

transitive verb

1 : to strike (two things, such as two flat, hard surfaces) together so as to produce a sharp percussive noise
2a : to strike (the hands) together repeatedly usually in applause
b : applaud
3 : to strike with the flat of the hand in a friendly way clapped his friend on the shoulder
4 : to place, put, or set especially energetically clap him into jail since I first clapped eyes on it
5 : to improvise or build hastily a hut clapped together from old plywood

intransitive verb

1 : to produce a percussive sound especially : slam
2 : to go abruptly or briskly
3 : applaud

clap

noun (1)

Definition of clap (Entry 2 of 3)

1 : a device that makes a clapping noise
2 obsolete : a sudden stroke of fortune and especially ill fortune
3 : a loud percussive noise specifically : a sudden crash of thunder
4a : a sudden blow
b : a friendly slap a clap on the back
5 : the sound of clapping hands especially : applause

clap

noun (2)

Definition of clap (Entry 3 of 3)

: gonorrhea often used with the

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Examples of clap in a Sentence

Verb

She clapped in delight when she heard the news. The audience clapped to the beat of the music. The conductor clapped her hands twice, and the musicians stopped talking and prepared to play. He clapped his friend on the shoulder. He clapped his hand over his mouth when he realized what he had said. He clapped his hat on his head and went out the door. She clapped a muzzle on the dog. The prisoners were clapped in irons.
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First Known Use of clap

Verb

14th century, in the meaning defined at transitive sense 1

Noun (1)

13th century, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Noun (2)

1587, in the meaning defined above

History and Etymology for clap

Verb

Middle English clappen, from Old English clæppan to throb; akin to Old High German klaphōn to beat

Noun (2)

Middle French clapoir bubo

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More Definitions for clap

clap

verb

English Language Learners Definition of clap

: to hit the palms of your hands together usually more than once
: to suddenly put the palm of your hand on someone or something
: to quickly or forcefully put someone or something in a place or position

clap

verb
\ ˈklap How to pronounce clap (audio) \
clapped