strapping

¹

[ strap-ing ]

adjective

1. powerfully built; robust.
2. large; whopping.

strapping

²

[ strap-ing ]

noun

1. straps collectively.
2. material used to make a strap or straps:

   manufacturers of plastic strapping.

strapping

/ ˈstræpɪŋ /

adjective

1. prenominal tall and sturdy

Word History and Origins

Origin of strapping¹

First recorded in 1650–60; strap + -ing ²

Origin of strapping²

First recorded in 1800–10; strap + -ing ¹

Word History and Origins

Origin of strapping¹

C17: from strap (in the archaic sense: to work vigorously)

Example Sentences

Most have taken heed of warnings to stay indoors - taping up their windows and strapping down garden furniture - while shops have lined sandbags in front of their doors.

From BBC

The 23-year-old became the subject of a nationwide manhunt in September 2023 when he fled prison while awaiting trial by strapping himself to the underside of a food delivery truck.

From BBC

Female runners are particularly prized since they’re less likely to arouse suspicion, strapping bottles beneath their saris.

From Salon

Khalife was convicted of spying for Iran and pleaded guilty to escaping the prison by strapping himself to the underside of a food delivery van.

From BBC

Khalife escaped by strapping himself to the underside of a food delivery van.

From BBC

Related Words

• burly
• hulking
• sturdy