Meaning & Definition of Tap in English

Detailed Definitions

• Definition: To hit something lightly, often to make a noise or to get attention.

  Example Sentence: He gave the table a gentle tap to get her attention.

• Definition: To draw liquid from a container or source.

  Example Sentence: They tapped the keg for the party.

• Definition: A device used to control the flow of liquid from a pipe.

  Example Sentence: The plumber fixed the tap in the kitchen.

• Definition: A light touch or stroke.

  Example Sentence: She gave her friend's shoulder a friendly tap.

• Definition: To engage in tapping a finger or foot to keep rhythm.

  Example Sentence: He enjoyed tapping his feet to the music.

Etymology

Origin: Middle English 'tappen' from Old English 'tæppan', of unknown origin.

Synonyms

Common Phrases and Expressions

• tap dance: A dance characterized by the sound of metal taps on the soles of shoes.
• tap into: To access or make use of a resource.
• tap on the shoulder: To get someone's attention by touching their shoulder lightly.

Translations

• Spanish: grifo

• French: robinet

• German: hahn

• Russian: кран

Related Words

• tapping: The action of making a light touch or strike.

• taproot: The main root of a plant that grows downward.

Slang Meanings of tap

• Meaning: To steal or take something surreptitiously.

  Example Sentence: He tapped some cash from the register when no one was looking.

• Meaning: To have an intimate relationship with someone.

  Example Sentence: He was tapping his neighbor for a while before they broke up.