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v. zapped, zap·ping, zaps v.tr. 1. a. To strike (an object or target) with a beam of energy, an electric current, or supernatural power: In the movie, the alien zaps the scientist with a ray gun. b. To expose to radiation, as to cook or examine: zap food in a microwave; zap luggage with x-rays at a security checkpoint. c. In science fiction and fantasy, to transport (a person or thing) into another place or time instantaneously, as with an energy beam. 2. a. To destroy or kill: "when the dinosaurs got zapped by whatever zapped the dinosaurs" (Laura Kasischke). b. To deplete or obliterate: "His personal funds were zapped in the merger" (Patricia Haley). 3. To have a sudden and powerful effect on: "His ... narrative runs marvelously on and on, zapping the reader with often surprising and ... painful glimpses" (Publishers Weekly). v.intr. 1. To move swiftly; zoom: zapped into the kitchen for a snack. 2. To use a remote control to turn a television set on or off or to switch channels. n. 1. A burst or beam of energy, electric current, or other power: a zap of 120 volts. 2. A sudden and powerful effect: a zap of fear; a zap of insight. interj. Used to indicate a sudden occurrence. [Imitative.] |
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