spank

¹ American  

[spangk] / spæŋk /

verb (used with object)

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

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noun

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

spank ² American  

[spangk] / spæŋk /

verb (used without object)

1. to move rapidly, smartly, or briskly.

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spank ¹ British  

/ spæŋk /

verb

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

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noun

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

spank ² British  

/ spæŋk /

verb

1. (intr) to go at a quick and lively pace

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Etymology

Origin of spank¹

First recorded in 1720–30; imitative

Origin of spank²

First recorded in 1800–10; back formation from spanking

Explanation

To spank is to hit someone with an open palm, especially as punishment. You should never spank your dog, even when she chews your favorite shoes; a firm "No!" is a strong enough correction. To spank is to slap, most often on the rear end. In some places, it's perfectly acceptable for a parent to spank their child for misbehaving, but spanking is increasingly seen as potentially harmful—and in some countries, it's even illegal. Spank is an imitative word, which means it was coined as an imitation of the sound of a spank on skin.

Example Sentences

"He absolutely didn't deserve that. Some of those fans should take a long, hard look at themselves for the way they mocked him. I hope Villa go there and spank them, just because of that."

From BBC • Dec. 29, 2025

He also chides West for leaving his orthodontic retainers out on the countertop, a light spank from elder to child.

From New York Times • Feb. 17, 2022

Putin responded that “it’s better not to spank children and not to cite traditions,” but agreed that “unceremonious interference with the family is unacceptable,” and promised to review the law.

From Seattle Times • Sep. 14, 2021

I’ve come a long way—I very rarely yell, never spank, and I’m generally responsive and caring.

From Slate • May 18, 2021

They don’t spank us or rap us on the knuckles with rulers or wash our mouths out with soap, all of that stuff you read about in old-fashioned books.

From "P.S. I Miss You" by Jen Petro-Roy

Related Words

• chastise
• clobber
• flog
• smack
• thrash