Whack: meaning, definitions and examples

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whack

[wæk ]

Definitions

^{Context #1 | Verb}

hit

To strike with a sharp blow or blows; to hit forcefully.

Synonyms

hit, smack, strike.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
whack	Whack is often used in informal settings to describe hitting something or someone with force. It can also suggest a sudden, strong impact, sometimes in a humorous way. He gave the ball a good whack with the bat. I accidentally whacked my knee on the table.
strike	Strike is often used in more formal or dramatic contexts to describe hitting with force or precision. It can also be used in broader contexts such as labor strikes or sudden actions. The boxer managed to strike his opponent's jaw. Workers decided to strike for better wages.
hit	Hit is a more general term for making contact with something forcefully. It can be used both in physical and abstract contexts. She hit the ball over the fence. The company's profits were hit by the economic downturn.
smack	Smack usually refers to hitting with an open hand, often producing a sharp sound. It can be used in both positive and negative contexts, but it sometimes has a slightly less severe connotation. Mom smacked the child's hand away from the hot stove. He smacked the mosquito on his arm.

Examples of usage

He whacked the ball out of the park.
She whacked him on the head with a newspaper.

^{Context #2 | Noun}

informal

A sharp blow or hit.

Synonyms

blow, hit, smack.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
whack	Often used to describe hitting something with force, especially in a sudden or violent manner. It can be quite informal and sometimes humorous. He gave the old TV a good whack to make it work. She took a big whack at the piñata.
blow	Typically used to describe a forceful impact, usually with reference to a physical hit or a significant setback. It can have a serious or negative connotation. The boxer delivered a powerful blow to his opponent's jaw. The sudden loss of his job was a devastating blow to his family.
hit	A general term for striking something or someone. It is neutral and can be used in various contexts, from sports to everyday situations. He hit the tennis ball with great force. She accidentally hit her head on the low ceiling.
smack	Often used to describe a sharp, quick slap, usually with an open hand. It can also be informal and is sometimes used when describing playful behavior. The mother gave her child a light smack on the bottom as a warning. He smacked the mosquito buzzing around his head.

Examples of usage

He gave the door a whack with his hand.
The sound of the whack echoed through the room.

Interesting Facts

Etymology

This word likely originated in the 15th century, possibly from the Middle English term 'whakken', meaning to strike.
In some dialects, it can refer to the sound or action of something being hit hard.
Whack also developed regional variations, with some communities adopting it to mean a foolish person or something that is odd.

Pop Culture

The term gained popularity in the 1990s with shows and movies featuring characters that would often 'whack' their enemies or competitors humorously.
In the gaming world, 'whack' is common in titles like 'Whack-a-Mole', entertaining players with the concept of hitting popping-up characters.
An iconic usage of the word appears in hip-hop culture, where it can refer to a tough persona or a hard hit.

Sports

In baseball, a strong connection can be made to hitting the ball with significant force, often referred to as a solid 'whack'.
In cricket, the sound of the ball connecting with the bat can be described as a 'whack', showcasing the sport's physicality.
Coaches often encourage players to 'whack' the ball when trying to improve their swing or kick.

Psychology

The word can describe physical expressions of frustration or anger, which may be manifested in hitting or striking behavior.
In therapy, playful activities that involve 'whacking' can help children express emotions in a safe, controlled environment.
Using playful terms like 'whack' can reduce the seriousness of discussions about anger, making it easier for individuals to explore their feelings.

Music

The term is often found in lyrics, particularly in genres that emphasize striking or hitting as a metaphor for impact, such as rock or hip-hop.
In percussion music, 'whack' can refer to the sharp sound produced by hitting an instrument, adding rhythm and energy.
Some songs use the word to convey both literal and figurative meanings, enhancing the emotional feel of the music.

Translations

Translations of the word "whack" in other languages:

🇵🇹 golpe

🇮🇳 प्रहार

🇩🇪 Schlag

🇮🇩 pukulan

🇺🇦 удар

🇵🇱 cios

🇯🇵 打つ

🇫🇷 coup

🇪🇸 golpe

🇹🇷 darbe

🇰🇷 때리기

🇸🇦 ضربة

🇨🇿 rána

🇸🇰 úder

🇨🇳 重击

🇸🇮 udar

🇮🇸 högg

🇰🇿 соққы

🇬🇪 დარტყმა

🇦🇿 zərbə

🇲🇽 golpe

Word Frequency Rank

At rank #25,548, this word represents specialized academic or technical vocabulary. It's less frequently encountered but may be valuable in specific contexts.

...
25545 invalidating
25546 evacuating
25547 reclined
25548 whack
25549 rationalizing
25550 truancy
25551 conceptualizing
...