First Known Use: 14th century
Dictionary
1dab
noun \ˈdab\
Definition of DAB
1
: a sudden blow or thrust : poke
2
: a small amount
3
: a gentle touch or stroke : pat
4
: daub
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Origin of DAB
Middle English dabbe
2dab
verb
: to lightly touch (something) usually with quick, small motions
: to put something on something with quick, small motions
dabbeddab·bing
Full Definition of DAB
transitive verb
1
: to strike or touch lightly : pat <dabbing her eyes with a handkerchief>
2
: to apply lightly or irregularly : daub <dab paint>
intransitive verb
: to make a dab
— dab·ber noun
See dab defined for English-language learners
First Known Use of DAB
1562
3dab
noun
Definition of DAB
: flatfish; especially : any of several flounders (genus Limanda, especially L. limanda)
compare sand dab
Origin of DAB
Anglo-French dabbe
First Known Use: 15th century
4dab
noun
Definition of DAB
chiefly British : a skillful person
Origin of DAB
origin unknown
First Known Use: 1691
DAB
abbreviation
Definition of DAB
Dictionary of American Biography
DAB Defined for Kids
1dab
noun \ˈdab\
Definition of DAB for Kids
1
: a small amount <Add a dab of butter.>
2
: a light quick touch
2dab
verb
dabbeddab·bing
Definition of DAB for Kids
1
: to strike or touch lightly <Dabbing at his streaming nose, Filch squinted unpleasantly at Harry … — J. K. Rowling, Chamber of Secrets>
2
: to apply with light or uneven strokes <She dabbed on more paint.>
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