To respond to criticism or an insult with a sharp, confident, and often witty comeback
To quickly say something clever back to someone who has insulted you — usually in a cool or funny way
2 meanings, ordered from most common to least. Color-coded by CEFR level.
To respond to an insult, criticism, or attack with a quick, sharp, and often witty verbal retort
"When the journalist mocked her outfit, the actress clapped back with a brilliant one-liner that went viral."
I had to clap back.
— Commonly attributed to Cardi B and other hip-hop artists in interviews and social media posts (general attribution; specific source varies)
To respond publicly to online criticism, often via social media (especially of celebrities or public figures)
"The pop star clapped back at critics who said her new album was 'a disappointment' by posting her chart figures."
'Clap' can mean to strike/slap; 'back' means in return — to clap back is to strike back verbally, though this etymology is debated
To quickly say something clever back to someone who has insulted you — usually in a cool or funny way
Originally from African American Vernacular English (AAVE) and hip-hop culture; now widely used in mainstream social media (especially Twitter/X and Instagram). Often used when a celebrity or public figure responds to criticism online. The noun 'clap back' (or 'clapback') is also common. Still carries a youthful, informal tone. Usage has spread globally through social media.
Natural word combinations native speakers use most often.
The five tense forms you'll use most often.
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