Wank
/wæŋk/noun
A vulgar term for masturbation.
Did you know?The word is thought to originate from the 17th-century slang for 'to strike or beat', leading to a surprisingly aggressive connotation in its modern usage.
Etymological Timeline
17th Century
English
wank
“To strike or beat, often used in a violent context.”
19th Century
English
wank
“Evolved to refer colloquially to the act of masturbation.”
20th Century
English
wank
“Became widely recognized as a vulgar slang term for masturbation.”
Modern English
English
wank
“Retains its vulgar connotation, often used humorously or derogatorily.”