taps

noun

ˈtaps 

plural in form but singular or plural in construction

: the last bugle call at night blown as a signal that lights are to be put out

also : a similar call blown at military funerals and memorial services

Example Sentences

Recent Examples on the Web

Despite the dilemma, the nation's beer taps won't likely run dry. —Mike Snider, USA TODAY, 24 Sep. 2022

Sustainability is key here with toiletries in big, refillable bottles and filtered water taps in the corridors, with glass bottles in every room to fill up. —Joanne Shurvell, Forbes, 28 Dec. 2022

In a test of 11 taps, preliminary results showed lead levels slightly exceeding the state standard of 15 parts per billion in two. —Jill Tucker, San Francisco Chronicle, 22 Dec. 2022

For maximum protection, the Insurance Information Institute suggests keeping all hot and cold taps open that tiny amount. —Rachel Wolfe, WSJ, 22 Dec. 2022

The spot billed as a gastropub with a focus on food and taps opened in August 2018. —Jordyn Noennig, Journal Sentinel, 22 Dec. 2022

Messi's post passes a photo of an egg that previously held the record at 56 million double taps. —Victoria Hernandez, USA TODAY, 20 Dec. 2022

Both Hazy Hearted IPA, in 6-packs, and the 12-can variety pack will hit select Michigan store shelves and taps as early as this week, with Bell's releasing Hazy Hearted IPA on tap Friday at its Eccentric Cafe in Kalamazoo. —Brian Manzullo, Detroit Free Press, 15 Dec. 2022

For the first couple weeks, guests will only be able to order food, cocktails and guest taps. —Bahar Anooshahr, The Arizona Republic, 6 Dec. 2022

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Word History

Etymology

probably alteration of earlier taptoo tattoo — more at tattoo entry 3

First Known Use

1824, in the meaning defined above

Kids Definition

taps

noun singular or plural

ˈtaps 

1

: the last bugle call at night blown as a signal to put out the lights

2

: a similar call blown at military funerals and memorial services