spank
B2Informal
Definition
Meaning
To hit someone, especially a child, on the buttocks with an open hand as a punishment.
To move quickly and vigorously; to defeat convincingly in a contest or game.
Linguistics
Semantic Notes
Primarily associated with corporal punishment of children. The extended meaning ('move quickly' or 'defeat') is a metaphorical extension of the verb's forceful, sharp action.
Dialectal Variation
British vs American Usage
Differences
Usage and attitudes are similar. 'Smack' is a common UK synonym; 'spank' may be slightly more common in US contexts.
Connotations
Carries strong connotations of parental discipline. In modern contexts, often discussed controversially regarding child-rearing practices.
Frequency
Moderate frequency in both variants, primarily in domestic, parenting, or historical contexts.
Vocabulary
Collocations
Grammar
Valency Patterns
[Subject] spank [Object][Subject] spank [Object] [Adjunct: for + reason]Vocabulary
Synonyms
Strong
Neutral
Weak
Vocabulary
Antonyms
Phrases
Idioms & Phrases
- “spank new (brand new)”
- “spank someone's bottom”
- “spank along (to move briskly)”
Usage
Context Usage
Business
Rare. Occasionally used metaphorically: 'Our new product will spank the competition.'
Academic
Rare in formal writing. Appears in psychology, sociology, or history papers discussing discipline.
Everyday
Common in discussions about parenting and childhood memories.
Technical
Not applicable.
Examples
By Part of Speech
verb
British English
- In the past, a teacher might spank a pupil for being cheeky.
- The old car could still spank along the motorway at a decent speed.
American English
- Some parents believe it's wrong to spank a child.
- Our team spanked their rivals in the championship game.
adverb
British English
- Informal/rare: The car was going spank down the road.
American English
- Informal/rare: He ran spank into the middle of the argument.
adjective
British English
- He bought a spank new guitar for the tour.
American English
- She showed up in a spank new dress for the party.
Examples
By CEFR Level
- The child was naughty, so his mother spanked him.
- I don't agree with parents who spank their children.
- After the scandal, the government party was soundly spanked in the local elections.
- The sleek yacht spanked through the waves, leaving a foamy wake behind it.
Learning
Memory Aids
Mnemonic
Think of the sound 'SPANK' - it sounds like the sharp slap of a hand on skin.
Conceptual Metaphor
PUNISHMENT IS PHYSICAL FORCE; VICTORY IS PHYSICAL DOMINATION; SPEED IS FORCEFUL MOVEMENT.
Watch out
Common Pitfalls
Translation Traps (for Russian speakers)
- Do not confuse with 'спаньё' (sleep). The Russian verb 'шлёпать' is a close equivalent for the core meaning.
Common Mistakes
- Using 'spank' to mean a general hit (e.g., 'He spanked my arm' is unusual). Overusing the extended metaphorical meanings in formal contexts.
Practice
Quiz
What is the most common, literal meaning of 'spank'?
FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions
No, it is informal. In formal discussions about corporal punishment, terms like 'corporal punishment' or 'physical discipline' are preferred.
It is very uncommon and would be considered odd or humorous in a non-metaphorical sense (e.g., 'spank an adult'). Its literal use is almost exclusively for children.
It's an informal idiom meaning 'completely new' or 'brand new'. It likely originates from the idea of something being so new it's still fresh and unused.
It is understood but is a stylistic choice, often used in sports journalism or informal narratives for dramatic effect. It's less common than the core meaning.