backslapper
|back-slap-per|
🇺🇸
/ˈbækˌslæpər/
🇬🇧
/ˈbækˌslæpə/
one who slaps backs / mutual praise
Etymology
'backslapper' originates from English, specifically the compound of 'back' and 'slap,' where 'back' comes from Old English 'bæc' meaning 'the rear part' and 'slap' meant 'a striking blow.'
'backslapper' changed from earlier forms such as the hyphenated 'back-slapper' and from the verb/noun 'back-slap' (recorded in 19th-century English) and eventually became the modern English word 'backslapper'.
Initially, it meant 'one who slaps another's back (as a greeting or sign of camaraderie),' but over time it also acquired the figurative meaning of 'someone who engages in mutual praise or self-congratulatory behavior.'
Meanings by Part of Speech
Noun 1
a person who slaps another on the back, especially as a greeting or in celebration; often boisterous or hearty in manner.
He was a friendly backslapper who greeted everyone with a loud laugh and a slap on the back.
Synonyms
Antonyms
Noun 2
a person given to mutual praise or self-congratulatory approval (figurative use); someone who participates in 'backslapping'—excessive or insincere praise among peers.
The committee quickly became a group of backslappers, congratulating each other regardless of the results.
Synonyms
Antonyms
Idioms
Last updated: 2025/12/27 06:58