taps

American  

[taps] / tæps /

noun

(used with a singular or plural verb)

1. a signal by bugle or drum, sounded at night as an order to extinguish all lights, and sometimes performed as a postlude to a military funeral.

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taps British  

/ tæps /

noun

1. 1. (in army camps, etc) a signal given on a bugle, drum, etc, indicating that lights are to be put out

   2. any similar signal, as at a military funeral

2. (in the Guide movement) a closing song sung at an evening camp fire or at the end of a meeting

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Etymology

Origin of taps

1815–25, probably tap(too) , variant of tattoo ¹ + -s ³

Example Sentences

A scene in which Bill taps his glass eye with a knife was not some special effect.

From The Wall Street Journal • Apr. 1, 2026

The 140-year-old Albemarle, for example, taps the knowledge of some of its older workers concluding their careers by helping the company make detailed specifications for aging plants.

From MarketWatch • Mar. 19, 2026

For most restaurants today, reservations happen with a few taps on a phone.

From Salon • Mar. 10, 2026

The same suspect drops a $20 bill behind the victim, then taps them on the shoulder to alert them that they appear to have dropped some money.

From Los Angeles Times • Feb. 25, 2026

Alex taps his G-glasses, and a green light scans the wall.

From "The Manifestor Prophecy" by Angie Thomas