Definition of sap

< sap

s.ap. >

sap²    (sp) KEY 

NOUN:

A covered trench or tunnel dug to a point near or within an enemy position.

VERB:
sapped, sap·ping, saps
VERB:
tr.

1. To undermine the foundations of (a fortification).
2. To deplete or weaken gradually.

VERB:
intr.

To dig a sap.

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ETYMOLOGY:
Obsolete French sappe, or Italian zappa, hoe from Old French, and Old Italian both from Late Latin sappa