spank

[spangk]

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verb (used with object)

to strike (a person, usually a child) with the open hand, a slipper, etc., especially on the buttocks, as in punishment.

noun

a blow given in spanking; a smart or resounding slap.

Origin of spank

First recorded in 1720–30; imitative

spank

[spangk]

verb (used without object)

to move rapidly, smartly, or briskly.

Origin of spank

First recorded in 1800–10; back formation from spanking

Dictionary.com Unabridged Based on the Random House Unabridged Dictionary, © Random House, Inc. 2019

Related Words for spank

thrash, chastise, smack, flog, clobber, trim, cane, clout, blip, lick, tan, whip, belt, hide, sock, paddle, cuff, punish, punch, buffet

Examples from the Web for spank

Historical Examples of spank

By dint of diligent bailing they had forced their crazy dory, towed by the equally crazy “Spank Me Again,” to carry them home.
Green Eyes
Roy J. Snell
In the morning I met Mr. Spank waiting for me at the entrance, and very desirous to see me.
Lorna Doone
R. D. Blackmore
Just the night before the day of the Spank, Marthy had begun to teach her her religious education.
The Confessions of a Daddy
Ellis Parker Butler

British Dictionary definitions for spank

spank

verb

(tr) to slap or smack with the open hand, esp on the buttocks

noun

a slap or series of slaps with the flat of the hand

Word Origin for spank

C18: probably of imitative origin

spank

verb

(intr) to go at a quick and lively pace

Word Origin for spank

C19: back formation from spanking ²

Collins English Dictionary - Complete & Unabridged 2012 Digital Edition © William Collins Sons & Co. Ltd. 1979, 1986 © HarperCollins Publishers 1998, 2000, 2003, 2005, 2006, 2007, 2009, 2012

Word Origin and History for spank

1727, possibly imitative of the sound of spanking. Related: Spanked; spanking. The noun is from 1785.