backslap

American  

[bak-slap] / ˈbækˌslæp /

verb (used with object)

backslapped, backslapping

1. to subject to backslapping.

---

verb (used without object)

backslapped, backslapping

1. to engage in backslapping.

noun

1. a hearty slap on the back given as a token of affability or congratulation.

   The bridegroom received many a warm handshake and backslap.

Etymology

Origin of backslap

First recorded in 1925–30; back ¹ + slap ¹

Example Sentences

“He’s not particularly ideological, he likes to backslap with his colleagues, and he likes to get around and raise money.”

From New York Times • Jan. 22, 2020

But the eagerness to backslap Sandler for the type of puerile and incurious humor he’s been peddling for the past two decades is revealing on its own, too.

From Slate • Nov. 7, 2018

He welcomes regulars with a hug or a backslap.

From Washington Post • Dec. 27, 2016

His idiom consists exclusively of backslap and bluster.

From The New Yorker • Sep. 21, 2015

Representatives of national associations mingled on a restaurant terrace to eat, drink and backslap with old colleagues.

From Los Angeles Times • May 28, 2015