Zap, in a way

LASE

Think of the precise beam used in surgery or barcode scanners.

"Zap, in a way" hints at a quick burst of energy, like a laser beam. The word lase is the verb form of laser—meaning to emit laser light, which fits the idea of zapping. It’s a playful twist since lase isn’t as commonly used as the noun, but it perfectly matches the clue’s action.