clapback

[ klap-bak ]

noun

1. a sharp response to criticism or an insult; a quick comeback:

   She had the perfect clapback to the crude comment about her looks.

   The dictionary is known on social media for its clapbacks and shade, showing how wit can gain consumer attention online.

verb phrase

1. to respond sharply to criticism or an insult:

   He’s faced a lot of negative comments online, and in some cases he’s clapped back at the trolls.

   She’s never been afraid to clap back at a hater.

Word History and Origins

Origin of clapback¹

First recorded in 2000–05; clap ¹( def ) + back ²( def )

Example Sentences

Sliding this new series into the paroxysmal dialogue over immigration and diversity would seem easy enough, except for the fact that Vijal Patel didn’t create the show as a clapback to current events.

From Salon

Carly Pearce is fast becoming country music’s queen of the clapback.

From Los Angeles Times

On the 15th anniversary of Kanye West’s VMAs interruption, will Taylor Swift stage the ultimate clapback by dropping the long-awaited ‘Taylor’s Version’ of her West revenge album, ‘Reputation’?

From Los Angeles Times

With this year’s VMAs and the anniversary looming, will Swift stage the ultimate clapback by dropping the long-awaited “Taylor’s Version” of her West revenge album, “Reputation,” to mark the occasion?

From Los Angeles Times

“So we are going to drop ‘A Crockett Clapback Collection,’” Crockett posted on X. “This collection will feature various swag that includes random things I’ve said. The money will go to ensuring that we have a Democratic House! Give me a little time to really get the swag online etc., but B6 will drop first.”

From Seattle Times