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Smack: meaning, definitions and examples

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smack

 

[smæk ]

Definitions

Context #1 | Noun

drug addiction

A slang term used to refer to heroin, especially when used intravenously. The term 'smack' originated in the 1970s and is still commonly used in the drug subculture.

Synonyms

dope, heroin, junk.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
smack

Repeated term; already noted in the list.
heroin

The formal and medical term for the drug. This word is used in news reports, medical contexts, and formal conversations. It is the most neutral term among these options.

  • Heroin addiction has become a major health issue.
  • The hospital treats many cases of heroin overdose.
dope

This slang term can refer to various drugs, including heroin, but also marijuana or other substances. It is often used casually or in street slang.

  • He was arrested for possession of dope.
  • You've got to stop using dope, it's ruining your life.
junk

A derogatory slang term for heroin. It is often used to emphasize the destructive nature of the drug and may have negative connotations.

  • She's been hooked on junk for years.
  • He threw his life away for junk.

Examples of usage

  • He was caught with a bag of smack in his pocket.
  • Many young people are lured into trying smack for the first time.
Context #2 | Verb

to hit with an open hand

To slap or hit someone with an open hand, often as a form of punishment or aggression. The term 'smack' can also be used figuratively to mean to strike or hit something with force.

Synonyms

hit, slap, strike.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
smack

Typically used when talking about a quick, sharp blow with an open hand. Often used in less serious situations.

  • He gave the mosquito a quick smack
  • She smacked the book out of his hand
slap

Used to describe a quick, forceful strike with an open hand, often in the context of expressing anger or disciplining someone. Generally, it has a more negative connotation.

  • She slapped him across the face after his rude comment
  • He received a slap on the wrist for his mistakes
strike

Can denote hitting with precision or force, and is often used in more formal or serious contexts, including professional settings like sports or martial arts, or to describe significant, strong blows.

  • He struck the punching bag with full force
  • The lightning struck the tree during the storm
hit

A general term that can be used for any act of striking someone or something with force. It is broad and can be applied in various situations, from physical confrontations to sports.

  • He hit the ball with all his strength
  • She hit him on the arm during the argument

Examples of usage

  • He smacked the table in frustration.
  • She smacked him across the face for being rude.

Interesting Facts

Etymology

  • The word has origins in the Middle English 'smakken,' which meant 'to strike.'
  • It traces back to the Old Norse word 'smaka,' meaning 'to hit or bang,' showing its long history of use.
  • The term also relates to older words in various languages that describe hitting or making a sound.

Cultural Uses

  • In some cultures, a smack on the cheek can be a friendly greeting, showing affection.
  • The term has been used in various songs and movies, often to convey playful or surprising moments.
  • In sports, a smack can refer to the sound made when a player hits the ball with force, emphasizing energy in the activity.

Psychology

  • Research suggests that physical actions linked to 'smacking' can release endorphins, triggering feelings of joy or excitement.
  • The concept of a quick smack can evoke responses in children, as they often associate it with playfulness or food enjoyment.
  • A gentle smack or tap can be related to positive reinforcement, showing its potential role in behavioral conditioning.

Literature

  • In literary works, a smack can symbolize spontaneity, emphasizing momentary feelings or actions between characters.
  • Authors often use the sound of a smack to create vivid imagery and engage readers in dynamic scenes.
  • Smack-related expressions appear in poetry, often representing boldness or impulsive emotions.

Food & Taste

  • In culinary contexts, a smack of flavor indicates a strong, pleasant taste that surprises the palate.
  • The term is also commonly used in descriptions of tasting, where a 'smack' represents a satisfying bite.
  • Famous foods often get described with 'smack' to highlight their deliciousness, drawing in appetites.

Translations

Translations of the word "smack" in other languages:

🇵🇹 bofetada

🇮🇳 थप्पड़

🇩🇪 Schlag

🇮🇩 tampar

🇺🇦 ляпас

🇵🇱 klaps

🇯🇵 平手打ち

🇫🇷 claque

🇪🇸 bofetada

🇹🇷 tokat

🇰🇷 때리기

🇸🇦 صفعة

🇨🇿 facka

🇸🇰 facka

🇨🇳 耳光

🇸🇮 udarec

🇮🇸 högg

🇰🇿 шапалақ

🇬🇪 სილა

🇦🇿 şillə

🇲🇽 bofetada

Word Frequency Rank

With rank #18,180, this word belongs to specialized vocabulary. While not common in everyday speech, it enriches your ability to express complex ideas.