rap

Meanings

1. 1
   noun

   A style of music in which words are spoken rhythmically over a beat.

   They like listening to rap.

2. 2
   verb

   To hit something quickly and sharply.

   She rapped on the door three times.

3. 3
   noun

   A quick, sharp hit or knock.

   He gave a sharp rap on the window to get her attention.

4. 4
   noun

   The blame for something, especially a crime.

   You can't act badly and then expect me to take the rap.

From Middle English rap, rappe, of North Germanic origin, related to Norwegian rapp (“a blow, strike, lash”), Swedish rapp (“a blow, lash, crack”), Danish rap (“a tap, smart, blow”). Compare Old English hreppan (“to touch, treat”). More at rape.

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