What Does It Mean to Call Someone a “Sap”? Slang & Alternative Meanings

Find out whether you should call someone a sap

Co-authored by Elaine Heredia, BA

Last Updated: December 11, 2025 Fact Checked

Slang Definition & Examples

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Should you call someone a "sap"?

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Alternative Meanings

"Sap" is slang for someone who's easy to fool or overly sentimental. This word has literally been around for centuries and can be a creative insult when used properly. Keep reading to dive deeper into the slang meanings of sap and see examples of how to use the word in a sentence. We'll also discuss if you should call someone a sap and explore alternative meanings of the word that you may (or may not) recognize. Let's go!

What does "sap" mean in slang?

A "sap" in slang refers to someone gullible, naive, and easy to fool. A sap can also be someone who often gets really emotional over sentimental things. "Sappy" is an adjective that describes how a person or thing is foolish or overly emotional. Examples are: "He's such a sap," and "That was a really sappy movie."

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Sap Meaning in Slang with Examples

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"Sap" is slang for a person who's easily fooled. This person tends to fall for pranks or scams easily because of naivete, innocence, or a trusting nature. They might also be easy to manipulate into doing what other people want, even if it's not in their best interest. This definition originated in the 18th century, when sap was slang for "simpleton." A simpleton is someone who is "simple," or stupid.^{[1]
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- "I can't believe he fell for that! What a sap!"
- "She's such a sap for thinking she could trust him."
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"Sap" is also slang for someone who gets overly emotional. This person tends to react with more emotion to sentimental things than other people do. For example, they might cry when they think about fond memories, special events (i.e., weddings, graduation ceremonies, etc.), or dramatic movies with a tragic twist (i.e., The Notebook or The Titanic).
- Some people also use the word "sappy" to describe movies, books, or behavior that they think is too emotional.
- "They become a real sap whenever we talk about our high school days."
- "That Hallmark movie was so sappy."

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Should you call someone a "sap"?

Avoid calling someone a sap unless you're joking and they know it. In general, it's best not to call someone a sap, at least not to their face. The slang meanings of sap aren't very positive, and the other person might feel insulted if you call them one. The only exception is if you know the person well and they're comfortable with you calling them a sap as a joke. Otherwise, keep it to yourself!
- You can call yourself a sap in a tongue-in-cheek way, if you want! For example: "I'm such a sap at weddings. I always cry!"

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"Sap" Alternative Meanings

For example, someone who just completed a marathon might feel sapped of their energy. This basically means they're tired. This version of the word can also be used in a metaphorical sense, as in, "Narcissists drain the life out of their friends and family."
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"SAP" is also an internet acronym meaning "sad and pathetic." Some people use "SAP" to stand for "sad and pathetic" when posting on social media or texting. They might say it to describe someone else who's acting in a way they think is stupid or emotional. They might also say it about themselves when they're going through something emotionally or physically draining.
- "That guy trying to get back with his ex is so SAP."
- "I feel so SAP. This cold I caught is really kicking my butt."
Sap is a sticky fluid composed of water, sugar, plant hormones, and other nutrients from the soil around the roots and the tree's leaves. Think of it like a tree's blood. Just like human blood keeps us alive, sap helps trees grow and thrive.^{[2]
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