Showing results for "clapback"

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Slang dictionary results for clapback.

clapback

American  

[klap-bak] / ˈklæpˌbæk /

noun

1. a sharp response to criticism or an insult; a quick comeback.

   She had the perfect clapback to the crude comment about her looks.

   The dictionary is known on social media for its clapbacks and shade, showing how wit can gain consumer attention online.

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verb phrase

1. to respond sharply to criticism or an insult.

   He’s faced a lot of negative comments online, and in some cases he’s clapped back at the trolls.

   She’s never been afraid to clap back at a hater.

Etymology

Origin of clapback

First recorded in 2000–05; clap ¹ ( def. ) + back ² ( def. )

Example Sentences

See Examples For:

clapback

Can you talk about what prompted this particular clapback?

From Slate ● Sep. 5, 2025

Followers eagerly took to the comments section of Bey’s Instagram posts to weigh in on her reveal and subtle clapback.

From Los Angeles Times ● Apr. 23, 2024

Then there was the Twitch streamer who tried to pet a kangaroo last month right before it gave her that outback clapback.

From Salon ● Nov. 13, 2023

The lighthearted clapback belied a season of distressing and loaded insults, ranging from veiled commentary to a Geno Auriemma eruption in February.

From Washington Post ● Mar. 31, 2023

He was a mid-distance runner like me, but had more mouth than he had moves, so he already knew the power of my clapback.

From "Patina" by Jason Reynolds