Phrase · British life & culture

the 'right then' thigh-slap

noun phrase /thuh-ryt-then-thy-slap/

Definition

A resounding, two-handed strike upon the denim of one's own legs, functioning as a non-verbal warning that you are about to stand up.

In use

“Dad delivered the 'right then' thigh-slap, which meant the visit was legally over.”

Filed under

british life cats parents
Published 3 August 2026

Keep exploring

More from British life & culture

Browse this topic
noun phrase the British debrief

A remarkably understated account of events that were, in reality, absolute chaos.

 noun phrase the modesty reflex

The automatic British response of downplaying positive circumstances.

 noun phrase the brave review

A polite observation indicating that someone has made an extraordinary error in judgement.

 noun phrase the wallet scuffle

A brief, semi-serious physical and verbal struggle to be the one who covers a small, low-stakes bill.

The details

About this phrase

The language, classification and history attached to this Definr entry.

Language

Language form
noun phrase
Pronunciation
/thuh-ryt-then-thy-slap/

Classification

Life domain
People & society

History

Published
Last updated

Your turn

Some things need more than one word.

Turn private jokes, local slang and oddly specific experiences into polished dictionary cards made for sharing.

Coin a phrase

Your image is ready

Save or share this card

Your finished PNG is shown below. Download it, share it, or open the full-size image.

Exported Definr dictionary card
On iPhone and Android, Download PNG opens your device share/save sheet. You can also press and hold the preview above.