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.

---

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

---

Etymology

Origin of taps

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

Example Sentences

The collection taps into the animal spirit, including celestial medallions, saber-teeth, horns, claws and symbolic engravings, in line with Aiko’s forthcoming album, “West$ide Whim$y.”

From Los Angeles Times • Apr. 3, 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

They had better hope their bankers don’t turn off the taps, too.

From The Wall Street Journal • Mar. 13, 2026

Scottish Water said it had closed intake to a water treatment works which had been affected and warned people not to use water from their taps.

From BBC • Feb. 20, 2026

He blows on his hand and then taps my leg.

From "A High Five for Glenn Burke" by Phil Bildner