smacking I. adjective Etymology: from present participle of smack (III) 1.: brisk, lively, spanking < a smacking breeze > 2.: outstanding in some respect (as size or excellence) • smack·ing·lyadverb II. noun (-s) Etymology: from gerund of smack (III) : the act of or sound made by one who smacks < gave the child a good smacking > < the smacking of the sail against the mast >