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clapback

(countable, originally, _, AAVE, informal) A witty or sarcastic retort.

ˈklæpˌbækCurrent117 viewsLast reviewed Jun 29, 2026+ Add a definition
🎤 Black culture & AAVE
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US
#1·Apr 27, 2026US

(countable, originally, _, AAVE, informal) A witty or sarcastic retort.

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US
#2·Apr 27, 2026US

(uncountable, countable, music) An exercise where the pupil is instructed to repeat a previously played rhythm by clapping.

For parents

Clapback means: An exercise where the pupil is instructed to repeat a previously played rhythm by clapping.. There is no real cause for parental concern; it is descriptive vocabulary rather than risky behaviour. If your teen uses it, context will usually make the intent clear. A short, curious question about where they heard it is usually all that is needed to know whether to follow up.

For ESL learners

clapback means: An exercise where the pupil is instructed to repeat a previously played rhythm by clapping.. Register: neutral, standard English. A common learner mistake is using the word in a register it does not fit, or assuming a single global meaning; native speakers immediately notice when slang appears in formal contexts, so always check the surrounding register before producing it yourself.

Heard in the wild
  • “Whilst I await the universe's clapback upon his man weave, Grothman needs to ponder why some foods are "top of line" and some aren't 🤷🏽‍♀️”

    — Bluesky· May 2026
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🎤About Black culture & AAVE slang

Slang from Black American Vernacular English (AAVE), hip-hop, drag and ballroom culture, the Caribbean, and NYC street vocabulary. The single largest source of new mainstream English slang in living memory.

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