What does it mean to tap a permanent?

Tapping a permanent means to turn it sideways from an upright position. This action typically indicates that the permanent has been used for some purpose, such as generating mana or attacking in the case of creatures. In Magic: The Gathering, tapping is a core mechanic that signals a permanent is no longer available for use until it becomes untapped, usually during the untap step of the next turn.

Each permanent has a specific role in the game, and tapping is the primary way to show that a permanent has been activated or utilized for its intended effect. For instance, when a creature attacks, it is tapped to indicate that it cannot be used for blocking until the controller’s next turn. Tapping is not about removing the permanent from play temporarily, utilizing its abilities directly, or discarding it; these actions pertain to different game mechanics.