spank

Everyday

1. To hit someone, usually a child, on the bottom with an open hand as a punishment. tree →
2. (noun) A slap on the bottom. tree →
3. (rude, adult slang) a rude word grown-ups use; not for school. tree →

In the lessons

In the past many parents and schools spanked children. Today it is against the law to hit children in Scotland, Wales, Ireland, New Zealand and many other countries, and most experts say it does not help children behave. In the Just So Stories, Taffy's long name means «Small-person-without-any-manners-who-ought-to-be-spanked», which is a joke, but in real life children have a right not to be hit. If someone hurts you, tell a trusted adult. Informal «spanking» also means very good or fast: «a spanking new bike», «at a spanking pace».

Examples

• In old stories, naughty children were often spanked. tree →
• It is now against the law to smack or spank children in Wales. tree →
• Taffy's name says she ought to be spanked, but her daddy loved her. tree →
• The horses trotted along at a spanking pace. tree →
• He rode a spanking new bicycle. tree →
• If an adult hurts you, tell a teacher you trust. tree →

Note

Past: spanked. Similar: smack (UK). «Spanking new» (informal) means brand new; «at a spanking pace» means fast. This is a safety word: hitting children is banned in many countries.