I. ˈ ̷ ̷ˌ ̷ ̷ noun
Etymology: back (I) + slap
1. : a slap on the back especially as an indication of good-fellowship
the symbols … of quick liking and respect — the handshake, the backslap — James Thurber
2. : a slap or blow caused by a sudden backward motion
II. transitive verb
: to slap on the back familiarly or approvingly ; also : to make an excessive or effusive display of approval of
many of the critics … tend to browbeat some authors as certainly as they can be guaranteed to backslap others — Vera Brittain
intransitive verb
: to engage in backslapping : make a pronounced or excessive display of cheerfulness, cordiality, or good-fellowship
would have puffed up and blustered and laughed and backslapped — T.W.Duncan
• back·slap·per -pə(r) noun