NYT Dictionary
CLAPBACK
NounCLAP-backclap-back · 2 syllablesAdvanced/Professional
Accepted in official NYT Spelling Bee puzzle years: 2025
Meaning
An exercise where the pupil is instructed to repeat a previously played rhythm by clapping.
Etymology
Origin: Middle English
Deverbal from clap back. Compare similarly formed Middle English ȝainclappe (“counterblow, riposte”, literally “back-clap”).
NYT Puzzle Appearances
Accepted in 1 recorded puzzle: