Definition of slap around

The phrase "slap around" is an idiomatic expression that originated in the early 20th century. It refers to a physical altercation, specifically one in which a person is being struck repeatedly. The phrase is believed to have originated from the literal meaning of the words "slap" and "around." "Slap" means to strike someone with the back of the hand, typically in a quick and forceful manner, while "around" suggests that the action is repeated multiple times. Initially, the phrase was used primarily in a boxing or fighting context, as in "He got slapped around in the ring last night." Over time, however, it has become more widely used to describe any situation in which someone is being physically or verbally abused, as in "She slapped him around for hours after finding out about the affair." Despite its violent connotations, "slap around" can also be used in a figurative sense to describe a metaphorical beating, such as in "The economy has been slapped around by rising interest rates." In this context, the phrase is used to convey the idea of something being harshly affected or treated unkindly. In summary, the expression "slap around" originated in the early 20th century as a way of describing a physical altercation, but has since evolved to become a versatile and often metaphorical phrase used to describe any situation in which someone is being mistreated or abused.