# spank

/ˈspæŋk/ (US) · /spˈæŋk/ (UK) · CEFR B2 · Verb

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/spank
Updated: 2026-05-09

## Definition

to hit someone on their bottom with your open hand as a punishment. You usually see this used when talking about how parents used to discipline children.

For teachers: to strike the buttocks with the open hand as a form of corporal punishment. Often carries a domestic or disciplinary connotation; informal in most contexts.

## Examples

- The child was worried his parents would spank him for breaking the vase.
- Many modern parenting experts advise against the decision to spank children, suggesting that positive reinforcement is more effective.
- While historical records indicate that teachers would frequently spank students for minor infractions, contemporary educational standards have strictly prohibited any form of physical discipline in the classroom.

## Usage notes

- The verb is transitive and requires a direct object, typically a person.

---

From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.