slap on the back
IdiomsExample Sentences
Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.
Washington cared a lot about appearances and made sure that he presented himself as a formidable, dignified figure, not someone you’d slap on the back on a whim.
From Slate ● Feb. 16, 2026
“If you want to enjoy that T-bone,” the man said, giving a friendly slap on the back as he got off the train, “it’ll be our secret.”
From New York Times ● Aug. 22, 2021
BBC cricket correspondent Jonathan Agnew described Root's 180 as "wonderful, well-controlled innings", adding: "He got a slap on the back from some of the Indians."
From BBC ● Aug. 14, 2021
Fortunately, atrocious coaching and a puppet "slap on the back" athletic director ended all concerns.
From Los Angeles Times ● Mar. 23, 2018
Mr. Gunthrie gave Miles another sharp slap on the back.
From "Made You Up" by Francesca Zappia
Definitions and idiom definitions from Dictionary.com Unabridged, based on the Random House Unabridged Dictionary, © Random House, Inc. 2023
Idioms from The American Heritage® Idioms Dictionary copyright © 2002, 2001, 1995 by Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Publishing Company. Published by Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Publishing Company.
