tapping

¹ American  

[tap-ing] / ˈtæp ɪŋ /

noun

1. the act of a person or thing that taps or strikes lightly.

2. the sound produced by this.

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tapping ² American  

[tap-ing] / ˈtæp ɪŋ /

noun

1. the act of tapping casks, telephone conversations, etc.

2. something that is drawn by tapping.

3. paracentesis.

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Etymology

Origin of tapping¹

late Middle English word dating back to 1400–50; see origin at tap ¹, -ing ¹

Origin of tapping²

First recorded in 1590–1600; tap ² + -ing ¹

Example Sentences

See Examples For:

tapping

Now they’re considering tapping into retirement their savings.

From Los Angeles Times ● Jul. 17, 2026

The practice of museums collaborating with fashion houses, tapping their archives and presenting their designs, is today widespread, and fashion as a legitimate form of art is now celebrated throughout the world.

From Barron's ● Jul. 9, 2026

It is about tapping into Morocco's passion for the game and grabbing "soft power on the international stage" by proving they can compete.

From BBC ● Jul. 9, 2026

Executives are tapping internal “AI champions” among their employees to boost adoption.

From The Wall Street Journal ● Jul. 8, 2026

“No more trouble,” she repeated, tapping his chest.

From "I Survived the Sinking of the Titanic, 1912" by Lauren Tarshis

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