slap down
See also: slapdown and slap-down
English
Alternative forms
- slap-down
Etymology
Metaphorical use of a literal phrase (slap + down).
Verb
slap down (third-person singular simple present slaps down, present participle slapping down, simple past and past participle slapped down)
- To browbeat or reprimand someone harshly, usually in front of other people.
- She slapped down her subordinate at the meeting.
Noun
slap down (plural slap downs)
- A harsh reprimand; a scolding, especially in public.