whack

UK: wæk | US: wæk

Definition

  1. vt. to strike forcefully with a sharp blow

  2. n. a forceful strike or hit

  3. n. (slang) a large amount (e.g., "a whack of money")

  4. n. (slang) murder or elimination (e.g., "to take a whack at someone")

Structure

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Etymology

"Whack" is an onomatopoeic word imitating the sound of a sharp blow. First recorded in the early 19th century, it likely originated from dialectal English or colloquial usage, capturing the abrupt, percussive noise of hitting. Over time, it expanded metaphorically into slang (e.g., "a whack of money" or "to whack someone"). Its vivid sound symbolism makes it memorable and versatile in informal contexts.

Examples

  1. He whacked the ball out of the park.

  2. She gave the door a whack to open it.

  3. That car cost me a whack of cash.

  4. The gangster was whacked in a mob dispute.

  5. Stop whacking the table—it’s distracting!