smack

UK: smæk | US: smæk

Definition

  1. n. 1. a sharp slap or blow

  2. n. 2. a loud kiss

  3. n. 3. a distinctive flavor or taste

  4. vt. 1. to strike sharply

  5. vt. 2. to kiss noisily

  6. vi. 1. to make a sharp sound

Structure
smack <sharp sound/blow>
Etymology

The word "smack" is of imitative origin (onomatopoeic), likely mimicking the sound of a sharp slap or a loud kiss. It first appeared in Middle English as "smakken," influenced by Old English "smeccan" (to taste) and Middle Low German "smacken" (to slap). Over time, it evolved to encompass both auditory and sensory meanings (sound, blow, taste), reflecting its vivid sound symbolism.

Examples

  1. She gave him a playful smack on the shoulder.

  2. The child planted a loud smack on his mother’s cheek.

  3. The soup had a smack of garlic.

  4. He smacked the ball out of the park.

  5. The door smacked shut in the wind.