noun General Slang

Clapback

/ˈklæp.bæk/ · noun · informal

A sharp, witty comeback to criticism or an insult — a response that shuts the other person down.

0

Definitions

1

Can be used as a verb — to clap back is to deliver that comeback.

“He clapped back so hard the hater deleted the post.”
by community
0
2

Often used for celebrities responding to critics or haters with a viral, savage retort.

“The artist's clapback at the reviewer went viral.”
by community
0
3

A quick, cutting reply to someone who came at you, especially online. A good clapback flips the insult back and wins the exchange.

“Her clapback to that troll was brutal.”
by community
0

Clapback In A Sentence

That clapback ended the whole argument.
She didn't even hesitate, instant clapback.
Best clapback I've seen all year, no notes.

Origin & Usage

Rooted in AAVE ("clap back" meaning to retaliate, with hip-hop usage including a 2003 Ja Rule track), the term spread widely in the 2010s for witty online comebacks, especially from celebrities.

Variants Clap backClapped backSavage clapback
Tags #gen-z#aave#internet#texting

People Also Ask

What does clapback mean?

A clapback is a sharp, witty comeback to criticism or an insult — a response that shuts the other person down.

Where did clapback come from?

It's rooted in AAVE and hip-hop, spreading in the 2010s for witty online comebacks, especially from celebrities.

Is a clapback always rude?

It's pointed by nature, but it's usually seen as clever and justified rather than just rude.

How do you use clapback in a sentence?

For example: "her clapback was savage" — a witty, cutting reply.

Comments 0