backslapping

American  

[bak-slap-ing] / ˈbækˌslæp ɪŋ /

noun

1. the practice of making a loud and effusive display of friendliness, cordiality, etc., as by slapping persons on the back.

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Other Word Forms

• backslapper noun

Etymology

Origin of backslapping

First recorded in 1770–80; back ¹ + slapping

Example Sentences

Even his allies acknowledge he is not the backslapping, baby-kissing type — concerns he has tried to address by spending more time greeting voters and taking selfies.

From New York Times • May 24, 2023

They describe him as a “loner” who “was not a backslapping politician.”

From Slate • Mar. 18, 2023

Reunions - some backslapping and cheery, others tearful - are everywhere as people run into old friends they haven't seen for months.

From BBC • Nov. 13, 2022

Emmer, 61, in his fourth term representing suburbs northwest of Minneapolis, presents as a classic Midwestern backslapping politician.

From Washington Post • Jun. 11, 2022

Syl’s ma and pa got out and took to hugging and backslapping the ferryman.

From "The Journey of Little Charlie" by Christopher Paul Curtis