Slam: meaning, definitions and examples

Use this when something is shut or hit with great force, often making a loud noise. This word can also imply anger or frustration.

• He slammed the door shut after the argument
• She slammed the book on the table

This word is used for a sudden loud noise, often caused by something hitting something else with force. It can also be used to describe the sound of an explosion.

• There was a loud bang as the car backfired
• He banged his fist on the desk in frustration

This word describes a situation where loud noises are made, often from metal hitting metal. It can also refer to a conflict or argument.

• The swords clashed during the battle
• Their ideas clashed at the meeting, leading to a heated debate

This is used when something breaks or hits something else with great force, usually causing damage. It can also describe the sound of a fall or collision.

• The vase crashed to the floor and shattered
• There was a crash when the two cars collided

This word is often used in situations where forceful or energetic actions are involved. It has a strong, dramatic connotation, especially when referring to closing doors or putting something down with force.

• He slammed the door shut in anger.
• The book hit the table with a loud slam.

Typically used in sports contexts, especially basketball, to describe the action of jumping and thrusting the ball through the hoop. It can also be used informally to describe dipping something briefly into a liquid.

• He managed to dunk the ball despite the tight defense.
• She loves to dunk her cookies in milk.

Used to describe situations where something is forcefully blocked or packed tightly. In music, it is used informally to refer to playing music, especially in an informal, improvised manner.

• There was a traffic jam on the highway.
• They decided to jam together after the concert.

Used informally to refer to placing items into something in a hurried or unorganized manner. It can also mean general items or things, but in this context, it’s about packing or filling.

• He stuffed all his clothes into the suitcase.
• The kids were eager to stuff their piñata with candies.

Used when expressing strong disapproval or criticism, often in a harsh and direct way. Can be negative depending on the context.

• The politician was slammed for his unethical behavior
• The movie was slammed by critics for its lack of originality

Commonly used in everyday situations to point out faults or issues. Can be constructive or negative depending on the tone.

• She criticized the new policy for being ineffective
• His boss criticized him for missing the deadline

Usually employed in formal or serious contexts, often with a moral or ethical dimension. Carries a strong negative connotation.

• The international community condemned the violent actions of the regime
• The judge condemned the criminal to a long prison sentence

Typically used in the context of reviews, especially for media like movies, books, or performances. Often carries a negative tone.

• The latest blockbuster was panned by reviewers for its weak storyline
• The novel was panned by critics but loved by the general public