spank

/spæɳk/

Friendly

Word: Spank

Part of Speech: Verb and Noun

Basic Definition:

• As a verb: "Spank" means to hit someone lightly on their bottom, usually with the flat part of your hand. This is often done as a form of punishment for children.
• As a noun: A "spank" is the act of hitting someone lightly on their bottom.

Usage Instructions:

• "Spank" is generally used in the context of disciplining children. It is important to note that in many cultures, spanking is considered controversial, and many parents choose to discipline their children in other ways.

Examples:

• Verb: "The mother decided to spank her child for not listening."
• Noun: "He gave his son a quick spank to remind him to behave."

Advanced Usage:

• In a more figurative sense, "spank" can also mean to defeat someone decisively in a competition. For example, "The team spanked their rivals in the championship game."

Word Variants:

• Spanking (noun): The act of spanking.
• Spanked (past tense): The past form of the verb "spank." For example, "She spanked him yesterday."

Different Meanings:

1. Literal: The physical act of hitting someone on the bottom.
2. Figurative: To defeat someone easily or to perform very well (e.g., "The student spanked the exam").

Synonyms:

• For the act of hitting: slap, smack, swat
• For the figurative meaning of defeating: trounce, crush, dominate

Idioms and Phrasal Verbs:

• There aren't many idioms specifically using "spank," but you might hear phrases like:
  • "Spank the competition" - To defeat a competitor easily.

Important Note:

While "spank" can be a disciplinary action, it is important to consider the context and the cultural views on spanking. Many people believe in using positive reinforcement rather than physical punishment.

Academic

Noun

1. a slap with the flat of the hand

Verb

1. give a spanking to; subject to a spanking

Synonyms

• paddle
• larrup