claps

Claps, or clapping, is the act of striking the palms of the hands together to produce a sharp sound. It is a form of nonverbal communication used to express approval, enthusiasm, or celebration, and it can also provide rhythm at performances or events.

Mechanics of clapping typically involve both hands with palms open and fingers extended, brought together at varying speeds and pressures to create different volumes and timbres. Some clapping is done with cupped hands for a louder effect, while other techniques may emphasize rhythm or texture. In music and dance, clapping functions as a percussive element that participants time collectively, sometimes in call-and-response patterns or synchronized sequences.

Contexts and cultural use vary. In theaters, concerts, sports, and public gatherings, applause signals audience reaction and appreciation. Clapping can be continuous, gradual in intensity, or culminate in a standing ovation. Rhythmic clapping is also studied as an element of group performance; notable musical works, such as Steve Reich’s Clapping Music, use hands as the primary instrument. Etiquette around clapping, including when to start or stop, can differ by culture and event.

Variations and related terms. Applause is the broader term for the act of showing approval by clapping, sometimes accompanied by stamping or cheering. In digital and music-production contexts, “claps” may refer to recorded percussion sounds used as samples or sound effects.

Disambiguation. The term “the clap” is also widely used as slang for gonorrhea, unrelated to the act of clapping.