What does strapping mean?
Strapping is chiefly an adjective describing someone who is vigorous, robust, or conspicuously tall and well-built. The expression “a strapping young woman” or “a strapping young man” presents the person as physically strong and energetic, often with the additional implication of an impressive or commanding appearance. It is established in British and American English but sounds somewhat old-fashioned compared with more neutral alternatives such as robust, vigorous, or sturdy. As a noun, strapping can refer to straps collectively or to the process of securing something with straps, although these noun uses are much less common. The word ultimately comes from “strap,” and its vivid descriptive force lies in conveying not merely health and strength but also a sense of confidence, vitality, and physical presence.
Vigorous, robust, or notably tall and well-built, especially of a person.
"She was a strapping young woman who seemed to tower over the other dancers."
Common in traditional descriptive language but less frequent in contemporary informal speech than “strong,” “vigorous,” or “sturdy.”
Straps collectively, or the action of fastening something with straps.
"The careful strapping of the bundles kept them secure during transit."
The noun is uncommon compared with the adjectival use.
Used only in the rare collective noun sense; the ordinary adjectival use has no plural.
"The porter checked the heavy straps and other strapgings before loading the luggage."
One word can make a person sound both athletic and unmistakably confident: a strapping figure strides into the room.
Reviewed by Deb Chak, Editor. AI-assisted content curated by RJS Tech Solutions LLP.
Where does strapping come from?
The word is formed from “strap” with the present participial ending -ing. “Strap” comes from Old English strop, originally meaning a tether or band, and is cognate with Dutch strop and German Strup. The adjective sense developed from the idea of something strong or vigorous resembling a sturdy strap.
Related word forms
How strapping is actually used
The adjective is traditional but still understood, especially in descriptions of a tall, vigorous, or healthy-looking person. The noun senses are comparatively rare in modern English.
Easily confused with strapping
A strap is the band or fastening itself, whereas strapping usually describes someone as vigorous or well-built.