Slam

Definition

Slam typically refers to a forceful or violent impact, or a sudden and harsh criticism. It can also refer to a competitive event such as a poetry slam or grand slam in sports.

Parts of Speech

• Verb
• Noun

Pronunciation

American English

• IPA Pronunciation: /smæʃ/
• Respelling: SMASH (with "SMASH" rhyming with "cash" and "dash")

British English

• IPA Pronunciation: /smæʃ/
• Respelling: SMASH (similar to American English, with "SMASH" rhyming with "cash" and "dash")

In both dialects, "smash" is pronounced with a short "a" sound, as in "cash" or "dash." The pronunciation of "smash" is consistent between American and British English, clearly reflecting the word's straightforward phonetic structure.

Etymology

The word "slam" is believed to have originated in the late 17th century, possibly imitating the sound of a forceful impact.

Derivatives

• Slammer
• Slamming
• Slammed
• Slam-dunk
• Slam-bang

Synonyms

• Bang
• Smack
• Clash

Antonyms

• Praise
• Compliment
• Endorse

Usage

"Slam" can be used in different contexts to indicate a forceful impact or collision, both literally and metaphorically. It can also denote a competitive event or a forceful criticism. The term finds its use in both everyday language and specialized fields like sports and poetry.

Related Terms

• Slam poetry
• Grand Slam
• Body slam

Detailed Definition

Verb

• Impact: To shut with force and noise.
• Example: She slammed the door in frustration.

• Criticism: To criticize harshly.
• Example: Critics slammed the new movie for its lack of originality.

Noun

• Forceful Impact: A loud, harsh noise made by a forceful impact.
• Example: The slam of the door echoed through the house.

• Competitive Event: A competitive event, especially in poetry or sports.
• Example: The annual poetry slam attracts poets from all over the country.