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Flapping: meaning, definitions and examples

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flapping

 

[ˈflæpɪŋ ]

Definitions

Context #1 | Noun

bird behavior

Flapping is the act of moving wings up and down quickly in order to fly or stay airborne.

Synonyms

beating, fluttering.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
flapping

This word is often used to describe the sound or movement of something, especially wings or fabric, moving back and forth rapidly.

  • The birds were flapping their wings excitedly.
  • The flag was flapping in the strong wind.
fluttering

This word is used to describe a light, quick, and delicate movement, often associated with small birds or butterflies, and sometimes fabric or paper in the wind.

  • The butterfly was fluttering its wings gently.
  • Leaves were fluttering down from the trees.
beating

This word is commonly used to describe a rhythmic striking motion, often associated with drums, hearts, or wings. It conveys a sense of stronger, repetitive action.

  • His heart was beating fast with excitement.
  • The drummer was beating a fast rhythm.

Examples of usage

  • The bird's flapping was a beautiful sight to behold.
  • The flapping of the wings created a mesmerizing sound.
Context #2 | Noun

linguistics

In linguistics, flapping refers to the rapid pronunciation of the 't' and 'd' sounds as a single flap sound, often found in American English.

Synonyms

strike, tap.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
flapping

Used to describe the motion of something moving back and forth rapidly, often used for wings or flags.

  • The bird's wings were flapping as it took off
tap

Indicates a light touch or hit, often used for gentle or intentional touches.

  • He gave her a tap on the shoulder to get her attention
strike

Describes hitting someone or something with force. Often used in contexts related to combat or intentional forceful action.

  • She aimed to strike the ball with her bat

Examples of usage

  • The flapping of the 't' sound in 'city' is a characteristic feature of American English.
  • Flapping can sometimes make words sound different in spoken language.
Context #3 | Noun

aeronautics

In aeronautics, flapping is the oscillation of an aircraft's wings during flight, often due to turbulence or other aerodynamic factors.

Synonyms

wing movement, wing oscillation.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
flapping

This term is used to describe the quick back-and-forth movement of wings, especially in birds. It often implies a natural or habitual action without necessarily focusing on the technical aspect.

  • The bird was flapping its wings frantically as it tried to take off.
wing movement

This phrase is more technical and formal, describing any kind of movement involving the wings. It's often used in scientific or observational contexts.

  • Researchers studied the wing movement of different species of birds.
wing oscillation

An even more technical term, usually used in scientific studies to describe the rhythmic and repetitive motion of wings. It's less common in everyday language.

  • The engineers analyzed the wing oscillation to improve the drone's flight stability.

Examples of usage

  • The pilot had to adjust the controls to stabilize the wing flapping.
  • The flapping of the wings can cause discomfort to passengers.

Interesting Facts

Etymology

  • The word 'flap' dates back to the 14th century, originally meaning 'to strike or hit something.'
  • It comes from the Old English word 'flaepian,' which means 'to fly up and down,' showing how it relates to movement.

Science

  • Birds use flapping to generate lift, allowing them to fly. The shape and speed of their wings affect how well they can soar.
  • Flapping also applies to certain types of aircraft, where the motion can create thrust and maneuverability.
  • Some species of insects, like dragonflies, can flap their wings independently, providing great control in flight.

Nature

  • In animals, flapping is often seen during courtship displays, signaling to potential mates.
  • Fish can exhibit flapping movements too, like when they jump out of the water, flapping their fins in the air.

Art

  • Flapping can be found in dance, where performers mimic the movement of wings for a flowing effect.
  • In animation, characters often flap their arms to fly or to express excitement, emphasizing movement and energy.

Everyday Life

  • Flags flap in the wind, creating visual rhythms that attract our attention during outdoor events.
  • The motion of flapping is also relatable when you think of how towels or blankets move when shaken.

Translations

Translations of the word "flapping" in other languages:

🇵🇹 batendo

🇮🇳 फड़फड़ाना

🇩🇪 flattern

🇮🇩 berkibar

🇺🇦 плескання

🇵🇱 machanie

🇯🇵 はためく

🇫🇷 battement

🇪🇸 aleteo

🇹🇷 çırpma

🇰🇷 퍼덕거림

🇸🇦 رفرفة

🇨🇿 mávání

🇸🇰 mávajúci

🇨🇳 拍打

🇸🇮 mahanje

🇮🇸 blak

🇰🇿 жоғары-төмен қозғалу

🇬🇪 ფარფატი

🇦🇿 çırpınma

🇲🇽 aleteo

Word Frequency Rank

With rank #17,808, this word belongs to specialized vocabulary. While not common in everyday speech, it enriches your ability to express complex ideas.