spank

[ spangk ]

See synonyms for: spank spanking on Thesaurus.com

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

Other definitions for spank (2 of 2)

spank²

[ 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. 2023

How to use spank in a sentence

MORE ----------- Paul Begala: Santorum Spanks Romney in Midwestern Primaries By Paul Begala Mitt Romney didn't just lose.
Daily Beast Contributors on Rick Santorum’s Minnesota, Missouri, and Colorado Wins | | February 8, 2012 | THE DAILY BEAST

British Dictionary definitions for spank (1 of 2)

spank¹

/ (spæŋk) /

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

Origin of spank

C18: probably of imitative origin

British Dictionary definitions for spank (2 of 2)

spank²

/ (spæŋk) /

verb

(intr) to go at a quick and lively pace

Origin of 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

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