tapping

¹

[tap-ing]

noun

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

2. the sound produced by this.

tapping

²

[tap-ing]

noun

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

2. something that is drawn by tapping.

3. paracentesis.

Word History and Origins

Origin of tapping¹

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

Origin of tapping²

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

Example Sentences

"It's our tune from when we got together," Dave explains, tapping his feet.

From BBC

There’s going to be a rebuilding process, but we’re tapping into the innate spirit of residents here, and the world can model it.

From Los Angeles Times

When he returns 16 years later, Redford puts the lines on his face and his trademark reticence to good use, tapping into our collective need for heroes and a belief in second chances.

From Los Angeles Times

Its exploration of the impact of smartphones and social media on teenagers captured the zeitgeist, tapping into the fears of parents around the world.

From BBC

Far-right activist Tommy Robinson is among those tapping into a "sense of disquiet" in the country, a Cabinet minister has told the BBC, after thousands joined a march and counter-protest in London on Saturday.

From BBC

Related Words

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