Main Entry:

¹rap

Pronunciation:

\ˈrap\

Function:

noun

Etymology:

Middle English rappe

Date:

14th century

1: a sharp blow or knock2 a: a sharp rebuke or criticism b: a negative and often undeserved reputation or charge —often used with bum or bad<given a bum rap by the press>3 a: the responsibility for or adverse consequences of an action <refused to take the rap> b: a criminal charge c: a prison sentence