slap (one) around

slap (one) around

To physically assault someone, especially as a means of control or intimidation. Our dad wasn't afraid to slap us around a bit when we got out of line as kids. If he still won't sign the contract, send some muscle over there to slap him around a bit.

See also: around, slap

Farlex Dictionary of Idioms. © 2024 Farlex, Inc, all rights reserved.

slap around

v.

To be rough or brutal with someone; abuse someone: The gangsters threatened to slap me around if I didn't get the money by Friday.

See also: around, slap

The American Heritage® Dictionary of Phrasal Verbs. Copyright © 2005 by Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Publishing Company. Published by Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Publishing Company. All rights reserved.