Boop is a playful word for a light, gentle tap, usually on someone's nose. When you boop your little brother on the nose with your finger, you're touching it quickly and softly, often to be silly or affectionate. The word itself sounds like the action: a quick, bouncy boop.

People also use boop when pressing buttons, especially in a lighthearted way. You might boop the elevator button or boop a key on your phone. The word makes even ordinary actions feel more fun and whimsical.

Boop became popular partly through internet culture and videos of people gently tapping their pets' noses. It's the kind of word that makes people smile just hearing it. You won't find it in most formal writing, but in casual conversation or playful moments, boop perfectly captures that spirit of gentle, silly touching meant to make someone laugh or feel noticed in a sweet way.