Definition, Meaning & Synonyms

tap-out

verb

/ˈtæp aʊt/

Definition

To surrender or submit, typically in a combat sport or grappling competition, by tapping on the opponent or the mat to signal that one is giving up.

Examples

During the match, he had no choice but to tap-out when his opponent locked in a tight armbar.
She felt the pressure of the hold and decided to tap-out before risking injury.
The fighter was known for his resilience, but he had to tap-out when the submission became too painful.

Meaning

In a competitive scenario, especially in martial arts, ‘tap-out’ indicates a situation where a fighter concedes defeat or shows that they can no longer continue, usually due to a hold or submission they cannot escape.