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.

---

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.

---

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

“Having co-founders like that, we’re tapping into the depth of the scientific and engineering talent that’s related to the fields that are of interest to us.”

From Barron's • May 27, 2026

Russell needed two attempts to get that close to the Italian, before spinning and lightly tapping the wall - with no damage to his car - at the start of a third effort.

From BBC • May 22, 2026

The investment firm is tapping into businesses that stand to benefit from the rapid adoption of artificial intelligence.

From The Wall Street Journal • May 14, 2026

Countries are tapping into oil inventories and strategic reserves at a "record pace" due to supply disruption during the Middle East war, the International Energy Agency said.

From Barron's • May 13, 2026

“You can start by telling me your name,” the officer said, tapping his fountain pen against the desk.

From "The City Beautiful" by Aden Polydoros

Related Words

• drilling