Smæk

Smæk is a Danish noun meaning a sharp blow delivered with the hand, typically to the face or body. It conveys the sense of a loud, forceful impact and is used both in literal descriptions of physical striking and in figurative language to denote a strong jolt or setback. The related verb smække describes the action of delivering such a strike or of slamming something shut, and the noun can appear in phrases like “give en smæk” (to give a smack) or “få en smæk” (to receive a smack).

In everyday Danish, smæk is most often encountered in discussions of physical punishment or discipline. In modern Danish law, corporal punishment of children is prohibited, and such actions are not considered acceptable. Beyond discipline, the word also appears in colloquial or literary contexts to express a striking impact—whether in a fight, a sport, or a sudden adverse effect on someone’s mood or fortunes.

The term is of Danish origin and is closely related to the verb smække, which captures the idea of a sudden, forceful action. While primarily used to refer to a physical hit, smæk is also employed metaphorically to convey abruptness or severity in various situations, making it a common element in idiomatic Danish expressions.