Laxi Dictionary

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Definition tap in British English

tap verb

verb
/tæp/

▪ firmly, gently, lightly, rapidly, repeatedly, softly

1

to touch someone or something gently and to move them slightly, or to make a soft knocking sound

Example

Michael tapped his nose with his forefinger.

Example

He tapped another code into the computer.

Example

Several young men sat tapping away at keyboards (=using computers).

Example

We could hear someone tapping at the door.

Example

I tapped him on the shoulder and he jumped.

Synonyms and related words
touch pick up handle
1.1

to touch the screen of a mobile device in order to make something happen

Example

If you have decided to attend a programme, tap this button to add and synchronise the event details.

Example

Tap here to activate plugin.

Synonyms and related words
access archive back up
2

to use electronic equipment to secretly listen to what someone says on the telephone

Synonyms and related words
agent breach of security bug
3

to get a substance from a particular place or object

Example

The scheme aimed to tap underground water resources.

Example

tapping trees for rubber

Synonyms and related words
get come by accept
3.1

to get money from a particular person

Example

I'll have to tap Mum for my bus fare.

Synonyms and related words
monetize earn recover
4

if you tap something such as someone's ability or a supply of information, you use it or get some benefit from it

Example

Are you tapping your staff's full potential?

Example

Several other companies were already tapping this market.

Synonyms and related words
repurpose go towards bring in
5

to choose someone for a task, especially membership of an organization or committee

Example

The President has tapped a former Justice Department official to lead the FBI.

Definition tap in British English