tapping

¹ American  

[tap-ing] / ˈtæp ɪŋ /

noun

1. the act of a person or thing that taps or strikes lightly.

2. the sound produced by this.

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tapping ² American  

[tap-ing] / ˈtæp ɪŋ /

noun

1. the act of tapping casks, telephone conversations, etc.

2. something that is drawn by tapping.

3. paracentesis.

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Etymology

Origin of tapping¹

late Middle English word dating back to 1400–50; see origin at tap ¹, -ing ¹

Origin of tapping²

First recorded in 1590–1600; tap ² + -ing ¹

Example Sentences

See Examples For:

tapping

The streamer has notched hit after hit by tapping in to the fervent, rapidly growing audience of young adults hungry for coming-of-age love stories.

From The Wall Street Journal ● Jul. 15, 2026

The practice of museums collaborating with fashion houses, tapping their archives and presenting their designs, is today widespread, and fashion as a legitimate form of art is now celebrated throughout the world.

From Barron's ● Jul. 9, 2026

It is about tapping into Morocco's passion for the game and grabbing "soft power on the international stage" by proving they can compete.

From BBC ● Jul. 9, 2026

You’re given little things so that you stay at it, and if you stay with the right intention, eventually you can feel the spirit tapping you on the shoulder.

From Los Angeles Times ● Jul. 8, 2026

“Beejee doesn’t have one of these in his apartment,” Ridge said, tapping the glass.

From "The First State of Being" by Erin Entrada Kelly

Related Words

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