tapping

¹

[ tap-ing ]

noun

1. the act of a person or thing that taps tap taps or strikes lightly.
2. the sound produced by this.

tapping

²

[ tap-ing ]

noun

1. the act of tapping casks, telephone conversations, etc.
2. something that is drawn by tapping.
3. paracentesis.

Word History and Origins

Origin of tapping¹

late Middle English word dating back to 1400–50; tap ¹, -ing ¹

Origin of tapping²

First recorded in 1590–1600; tap ² + -ing ¹

Example Sentences

But the former environmental lawyer has gained a following by tapping into mistrust of those who see US regulators as too deferential to big food and medical companies.

From BBC

He also praised Trump for tapping Elon Musk, a longtime friend of McCarthy and the world’s richest person, to help lead a new office to overhaul government.

From Los Angeles Times

“This. This next verse,” he said, tapping the play button again.

From Los Angeles Times

Ben Mullin, the New York Times’ media reporter, described the media group’s fundraising as "a sign that some outlets are tapping a surge of enthusiasm for adversarial journalism post-election".

From BBC

Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orban - who previously said he celebrated Trump's win by "tapping into the vodka supply happily" - said the US and Europe now face tough talks on trade.

From BBC

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