backslaps
Jovial congratulatory gestures
Backslaps are hearty slaps on the back, given as congratulation or greeting.
The gesture suggests camaraderie and approval, though it can feel performative or insincere: The deal closed with handshakes and backslaps all around.
Figuratively, backslaps are expressions of mutual admiration, sometimes excessive: The award ceremony was full of backslaps and self-congratulation.
Expression of praise for achievement
- kudosPraise and honor
- praiseExpression of approval
- accoladesFormal expressions of praise
- applauseCollective hand-clapping approval
cheers · toasts · ovation · tribute · commendation · recognition · well-done · attaboy
Forming close connections
- brotherhoodKinship among men
- fellowshipMutual goodwill among companions
- solidarityUnity among allies
- rapportHarmonious mutual connection
kinship · togetherness · comradeship · fraternity · buddy · pal · mate · comrade
Formal expression of support
- acceptanceConsent to receive
- blessingPrayer seeking divine favor
- sanctionApproval or punitive measure
- nodBrief head tilt
favor · support · affirmation · thumbs-up · validation · patronage
Impetus toward a goal
- supportTo uphold or sustain
- boostUpward push or increase
- inspirationSource of creative impulse
- moraleGroup emotional well-being
confidence · uplift · reassurance · heartening · cheer · affirmation · empowerment · enthusiasm
congratulations
Expression of praise for achievement
applause · cheers · toasts · ovation · tribute · commendation · recognition · well-done · attaboy · high-fives
bonding
Forming close connections
- brotherhoodKinship among men
- fellowshipMutual goodwill among companions
- solidarityUnity among allies
rapport · kinship · togetherness · comradeship · fraternity · buddy · pal · mate · comrade · chum
endorsement
Formal expression of support
- acceptanceConsent to receive
- blessingPrayer seeking divine favor
- sanctionApproval or punitive measure
nod · favor · support · affirmation · thumbs-up · validation · patronage
motivation
Impetus toward a goal
- supportTo uphold or sustain
- boostUpward push or increase
- inspirationSource of creative impulse
morale · confidence · uplift · reassurance · heartening · cheer · affirmation · empowerment · enthusiasm · fortification
teamwork
Joint effort toward shared aim
handshake · competitor · opponent · postgame · sideline · dugout · locker-room
- praiselauding, compliments, laudation, accolades, great job
- casual communicationsmall talk, chit-chat, chitchat, banter, texting
backslapshandshakes
Mutual palm grips
curtsies · salutes · air kisses · fist bumps · nods
backslapsslaps in the face
Sudden shocking insults
punches · shoves · backstabbings · rebukes · insults
backslapscold shoulders
Intentional chilly treatment
snubs · rebuffs · slaps in the face · brushoffs · shuns