The phrase "tapped out" is commonly used to indicate a state of exhaustion or being completely out of resources. The word "tapped" is spelled with the /æ/ sound as in "cat" and the /t/ sound, followed by the /p/ sound. The suffix "ed" is added to indicate past tense, with the final sound being a /t/ sound. The word "out" is spelled with the /aʊ/ diphthong as in "cow" and the /t/ sound. Altogether, the word is pronounced as /tæpt aʊt/.
Tapped out is an idiomatic expression that originated from the world of combat sports, particularly boxing and mixed martial arts. In its literal sense, it refers to a fighter being completely worn out or exhausted to the point where they no longer have any energy or strength to continue competing. When a fighter is "tapped out," it implies that they have reached the limits of their physical endurance and can no longer continue actively participating in the fight.
In a broader and more figurative sense, the phrase "tapped out" has been adopted into everyday language to depict someone being completely drained or depleted of their resources or abilities. It can refer to someone who is utterly exhausted, mentally or physically, due to strenuous activities, excessive workloads, or prolonged stress. For example, a person may feel tapped out after working long hours or dealing with numerous demanding responsibilities.
Moreover, being tapped out can also describe a situation where someone has depleted their financial resources and is unable to pay for something or fulfill financial obligations. It can denote a state of being financially broke or "maxed out" on one's available funds.
Overall, whether used in the context of physical exhaustion, mental fatigue, or financial depletion, being tapped out signifies a significant level of depletion or complete exhaustion.
The term "tapped out" has its origins in the early 20th century with the emergence of American slang. The word "tapped" is derived from the verb "tap", which means to draw liquid from a container, such as tapping a keg of beer. This action symbolizes the complete depletion of a resource, leaving nothing remaining.
The phrase "tapped out" began to be used colloquially to describe a situation where someone has exhausted all their available resources or is completely without means. It was initially associated with the idea of having drained all the money from one's pocket, leaving them financially depleted or bankrupt. Over time, this expression has expanded beyond financial connotations to denote being physically, emotionally, or mentally exhausted as well.
The use of "tapped out" employs a metaphorical representation of a tap being turned off or a container being emptied, indicating a lack or complete absence of something.