1. plural of spanking; acts of hitting someone, especially a child, on the buttocks as punishment
Usage: typically refers to corporal punishment of children
2. plural of spanking; severe defeats or losses
Usage: informal

Examples

• The school banned corporal punishment, including spankings.
• Many parents debate whether spankings are effective discipline.
• Child psychologists often discourage spankings as punishment.
• The team suffered several spankings during their losing streak.
• After three consecutive spankings, the coach changed strategies.
• Some cultures view spankings as normal child-rearing practices.