Sap

/sæp/

Meaning & Definition

noun
A watery fluid that circulates through a plant, consisting of water, sugar, and other substances.
The sap flows most freely in spring, when the tree is awakening after winter.
Vitality or energy; liveliness.
Youth is often associated with sap and vigor.
A person who is regarded as gullible or easily deceived.
Don't be such a sap; you can't believe everything you see on the internet.
verb
To gradually weaken or destroy the strength or energy of someone or something.
The long hours at work began to sap his energy.
To draw or take away a substance, especially liquid.
They need to sap the moisture from the walls to prevent mold growth.

Etymology

Middle English, from Old English saps, related to the act of drawing off liquid.

Common Phrases and Expressions

sap up
To absorb or take in.
sap the strength of
To weaken someone or something.

Related Words

sappy
Overly sentimental or emotional.
sapwood
The younger, active part of a tree that transports nutrients.

Slang Meanings

A gullible or overly naive person.
He fell for that scam; what a sap!
To be overly sentimental.
She gets all sappy during romantic movies.