Tapper Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
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tapper
[ˈtæpər ]
Definitions
person or device
A tapper is a person or device that taps or strikes something lightly, often to check its condition or to create a sound. In musical contexts, a tapper can refer to someone who creates rhythm by tapping on instruments or surfaces. In industrial contexts, a tapper may be a tool that punctures or makes slight indentations in materials. The action of tapping is often associated with precision and gentle touch.
Synonyms
beater, hammer, pounder, striker.
Examples of usage
- The tapper gently struck the drum.
- He worked as a tapper in the factory.
- The musician used a tapper to create rhythm.
- The tapper tested the quality of the wood.
to strike lightly
To tap is to strike lightly, often in a rhythmic or gentle manner. This action is commonly used in a variety of contexts, such as tapping a screen to select an option, tapping a glass to get attention, or tapping a surface to check for hidden objects. Tapping can also refer to making a sequence of sounds by striking an instrument or object. The term can also extend to the act of accessing a resource, such as tapping into a network.
Synonyms
hit, knock, pat, poke, strike.
Examples of usage
- She tapped her phone to unlock it.
- He tapped on the table during the meeting.
- The drummer tapped out a steady beat.
- They tapped into a shared resource.
Translations
To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.
Interesting Facts
Music
- In music, a tapper often refers to a musician who uses their fingers to create rhythmic sounds, like in drumming or playing percussion instruments.
- Tap dancing is a form of dance where artists wear shoes fitted with metal plates and produce rhythms by tapping their feet.
- Tappers are also found in home brewing, where they can refer to the device used to tap kegs for beer.
Technology
- In electronics, a 'tapper' can refer to a device that connects to a telephone line to monitor calls.
- Tapper programs in computer science allow users to interact by tapping at times, crucial in app design for engagement.
- Smartphones feature tap recognition, allowing user interaction with the screen through light taps.
Cultural References
- In culinary practices, a 'tapper' may refer to someone who taps the surface of chocolates to eliminate air bubbles and create smooth finishes.
- Folk stories in various cultures mention characters called tappers who are skilled at getting things done subtly and effectively.
- In some native cultures, tapping wood with specific tools is a technique used for hollowing out logs for canoes.
Origin of 'tapper'
Main points about word origin
- The word 'tapper' comes from the Old English word 'tappian,' meaning to strike or hit lightly.
- In historical contexts, it referred to someone who tapped a barrel to draw liquid.
- Given the evolution of language, similar words in other languages, like 'tap' in French, also refer to hitting lightly.
The word 'tapper' originates from the verb 'tap', which comes from Middle English 'tappen', meaning 'to strike lightly'. This word likely has Germanic roots, as there are similar words in Old High German ('tapan') and Dutch ('tappen'), meaning to strike or touch lightly. The evolution of the term has led to its current usage in both noun and verb forms, adapting to various contexts including music, industry, and technology. The application of 'tap' in modern language extends to digital interactions, indicating the action of tapping on a touchscreen, showcasing the term's adaptability and relevance in contemporary society. The history of 'tapper' reflects its foundational meaning tied to light striking and interaction, which has persisted through the centuries.