tap

(tăp)

1. To strike gently with a light blow or blows: I tapped you on the shoulder to get your attention.
2. To give a light rap with: tap a pencil.
3. To produce with a succession of light blows: tap out a rhythm.
4. To select, as for membership in an organization; designate. See Synonyms at appoint.
5. a. To repair (shoe heels or toes) by applying a thin layer of leather or a substitute material.
   b. To attach metal plates to (shoe toes or heels).

1. To deliver a gentle, light blow or blows.
2. To walk making light clicks.

1. a. A gentle blow.
   b. The sound made by such a blow.
2. a. A thin layer of leather or a substitute applied to a worn-down shoe heel or toe.
   b. A metal plate attached to the toe or heel of a shoe, as for tap-dancing.
3. Linguistics See flap.

(tăp)

1. A valve and spout used to regulate delivery of a fluid at the end of a pipe.
2. A plug for a bunghole; a spigot.
3. a. Liquor drawn from a spigot.
   b. Liquor of a particular brew, cask, or quality.
4. Medicine The removal of fluid from a body cavity: a spinal tap.
5. A tool for cutting an internal screw thread.
6. A makeshift terminal in an electric circuit.
7. A wiretap.

1. To furnish with a spigot or tap.
2. To pierce in order to draw off liquid: tap a maple tree.
3. To draw (liquid) from a vessel or container: tap a new keg of beer.
4. Medicine To withdraw fluid from (a body cavity).
5. To make a physical connection with or open outlets from: tap a water main.
6. a. To wiretap (a telephone).
   b. To establish an electric connection in (a power line), as to divert current secretly.
7. To establish access to or a connection with: tapped a new market for inexpensive books.
8. To take advantage of; make use of: tapped voter anger to win the election.
9. To cut screw threads in (a collar, socket, or other fitting).
10. Informal To ask (a person) for money.