Clap
/klæp/
Definitions
2 meaningsTo strike the palms of the hands together, usually to express applause or approval.
/klæp/
To strike the palms of the hands together, making a sharp sound.
She clapped her hands with delight.
💡 Simply: Imagine clapping your hands after a great song; that's exactly what it means! It's like making a happy noise with your hands.
👶 For kids: Hit your hands together to make a noise!
More Examples
The children clapped rhythmically to the music.
How It's Used
"The audience clapped enthusiastically after the performance."
"The crowd clapped their hands in appreciation for the winning team."
The act or sound of striking the palms of the hands together.
/klæp/
The act of clapping; the sound produced by clapping.
The singer was rewarded with a loud clap.
💡 Simply: It's the sound you make when you clap your hands, often to show you like something.
👶 For kids: The sound your hands make when you hit them together.
More Examples
There was a single clap of thunder.
How It's Used
"The play received a thunderous clap of applause."
Idioms & expressions
clap someone on the back
To congratulate or praise someone.
"The boss clapped him on the back for a job well done."
From Middle English *clappen, from Old English *clappian, of imitative origin.
The word 'clap' has been used in its current forms for centuries, primarily to express applause.
Memory tip
Think of the sound – 'CLAP!' – to remember the action.