DAB Meaning and
Definition
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"Dab" is a versatile, primarily informal verb that encompasses various meanings and has gained different connotations in recent years.
One common interpretation of "dab" is a simple, quick pressing or patting motion using a small amount of a substance, typically with one's fingertip or a cloth. This action often involves applying a small amount of liquid, cream, or powder directly onto a surface. For example, an individual might dab perfume on their wrists or dab ointment on a wound.
In a different context, "dab" may also refer to a popular dance move and gesture characterized by the performer tucking their head into their elbow while extending the other arm straight out. This dance move became especially widespread in the mid-2010s, with many individuals incorporating it into their routines or videos.
More recently, "dab" has also become synonymous with consuming cannabis concentrates. It refers to the act of inhaling the vapor produced by heating such substances on a heated surface. The term has been adopted by the cannabis community and is closely associated with the use of specialized equipment, such as dab rigs or vaporizers.
In summary, "dab" can denote a swift, light touch or application of a substance, the name of a popular dance move, or the act of consuming cannabis concentrates. The meaning of "dab" varies depending on the context in which it is used.
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• A gentle blow; a small lump of anything soft and moist; something moist thrown on a person; a small fish.
Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.
Top Common Misspellings for DAB *
* The statistics data for these misspellings percentages are collected from over 15,411,110 spell check sessions on www.spellchecker.net from Jan 2010 - Jun 2012.
Other Common Misspellings for DAB
Etymology of DAB
The word "dab" has multiple etymological origins, each with a different meaning:
1. As a verb meaning "to touch lightly or gently": The verb "dab" comes from the Middle English word "dabben", which is of uncertain origin. It may have derived from the Old Norse word "doppa", meaning "to dip or immerse". It could also be related to the Dutch word "dabben", meaning "to pat" or the German word "tappen", meaning "to tip or tap".
2. As a noun meaning "a small amount": The noun "dab" comes from the Middle English word "dabbe", which originally meant "a lump or a small piece". It is closely related to the Old Norse word "doppa" and has the same sense of "a small lump or ball".
Idioms with the word DAB
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dab sth on(to) sth
The idiom "dab sth on(to) sth" typically means to apply or place a small amount of something gently onto a surface. It often refers to using a small, quick, and light touch to spread or distribute a substance in a controlled manner. This phrase is commonly used when talking about applying cosmetics, ointments, or other substances.
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dab sth off (of) sth
The idiom "dab sth off (of) sth" refers to the act of lightly touching or patting something to remove it from a surface. It often involves using a cloth, tissue, or one's hand to quickly and gently wipe away a substance or mark.
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dab hand
The idiomatic expression "dab hand" is used to describe someone who is highly skilled or proficient in a particular activity or field. It refers to someone who possesses great expertise or ability in a specific area and is capable of performing tasks with ease and finesse.
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dab on them folks
The idiom "dab on them folks" is a playful phrase derived from the popular dance move called the "dab." It means to confidently and arrogantly show off one's superiority, skills, or success in a situation, often to the dismay or envy of others. It can also be used humorously to mock or ridicule someone by taking satisfaction in outperforming or outwitting them.
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dab (something) off
The idiom "dab (something) off" means to lightly touch or pat on an object to remove or eliminate a small amount of substance, such as liquid or dirt, typically with a cloth, tissue, or one's finger. It is often used when discussing the act of removing something from a surface gently and skillfully.
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dab on
The definition of the idiom "dab on" refers to a gesture or action where a person puts one arm out straight and perpendicular to their body while tucking the opposite arm's elbow into it, often accompanied by a slight bowing motion. This gesture became popularized particularly among young people as a way to show off or celebrate a victory or accomplishment, often accompanied by a sense of exaggerated confidence or swagger.
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slap-dab
The idiom "slap-dab" is an adverbial expression that means directly or precisely in a specific place or position. It is commonly used to describe something that is done or placed exactly where it should be, without any deviation or hesitation. It often implies a sense of immediacy or suddenness.
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smack (dab) in the middle
The idiom "smack (dab) in the middle" is typically used to describe being in the exact center or middle of something. It refers to being perfectly positioned or located in the most prominent or noticeable spot.
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dab at (something)
The idiom "dab at (something)" means to touch or pat something lightly or briefly, usually with a soft and gentle motion, in order to remove or apply something. It implies a delicate or careful action, typically involving a small amount of pressure or contact.
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be a dab hand
The idiom "be a dab hand" means to be highly skilled or proficient at a particular activity or task. It signifies someone who is adept, competent, or accomplished in a specific skill or field.
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dab at sth
The idiom "dab at something" typically means to touch or pat something gently and briefly, usually with a cloth or tissue, in order to remove a small amount of liquid, dirt, or substance. It implies a light and delicate touch to address a minor issue or to tidy up something quickly.
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a little dab will do you
The idiom "a little dab will do you" means that a small amount of something is sufficient or effective. It implies that too much of it is unnecessary or could even be harmful.
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a dab hand
The idiom "a dab hand" refers to someone who is highly skilled or proficient in a particular area or task. It suggests that the person is exceptionally competent and adept at what they do.
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be a dab hand at
The idiom "be a dab hand at" means to be highly skilled, proficient, or adept at something. It refers to someone who possesses a specific talent, ability, or expertise in a particular area. They are able to perform a task or activity with great skill or ease.
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be a dab hand at something/at doing something
The idiom "be a dab hand at something/at doing something" means to be highly skilled or proficient in a particular activity or task. It implies that the person can perform the task with great ease and expertise.
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dab something off (of) something
The idiom "dab something off (of) something" means to remove or clean a small amount of substance, such as a liquid or stain, from a surface by lightly pressing or patting it. It often involves using a cloth or tissue to quickly and gently wipe away the substance.
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dab something on(to) something
The idiom "dab something on(to) something" means to apply or put a small amount of something onto a surface or object using quick, light touches or movements. It implies a gentle and precise action of applying or spreading a substance onto a particular area.
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a little dab'll do ya
"A small amount is sufficient; a little goes a long way."
Similar spelling words for DAB
- daffo,
- dad,
- tab,
- daba,
- davy,
- dayboy,
- Davey,
- Davie,
- day,
- Dave,
- lab,
- dabs,
- jab,
- daub,
- dam,
- cab,
- drab,
- nab,
- dafoe,
- Davi.
Conjugate verb Dab
CONDITIONAL PERFECT
I
would have dabbed
you
would have dabbed
he/she/it
would have dabbed
we
would have dabbed
they
would have dabbed
I
would have dab
you
would have dab
he/she/it
would have dab
we
would have dab
they
would have dab
CONDITIONAL PERFECT PROGRESSIVE
I
would have been dabbing
you
would have been dabbing
he/she/it
would have been dabbing
we
would have been dabbing
they
would have been dabbing
CONDITIONAL PRESENT
I
would dab
you
would dab
he/she/it
would dab
we
would dab
they
would dab
CONDITIONAL PRESENT PROGRESSIVE
I
would be dabbing
you
would be dabbing
he/she/it
would be dabbing
we
would be dabbing
they
would be dabbing
FUTURE
I
will dab
you
will dab
he/she/it
will dab
we
will dab
they
will dab
FUTURE CONTINUOUS
I
will be dabbing
you
will be dabbing
he/she/it
will be dabbing
we
will be dabbing
they
will be dabbing
FUTURE PERFECT
I
will have dabbed
you
will have dabbed
he/she/it
will have dabbed
we
will have dabbed
they
will have dabbed
FUTURE PERFECT CONTINUOUS
I
will have been dabbing
you
will have been dabbing
he/she/it
will have been dabbing
we
will have been dabbing
they
will have been dabbing
IMPERATIVE
you
dab
we
let´s dab
to dab
PAST CONTINUOUS
I
was dabbing
you
were dabbing
he/she/it
was dabbing
we
were dabbing
they
were dabbing
PAST PARTICIPLE
dabbed
PAST PERFECT
I
had dabbed
you
had dabbed
he/she/it
had dabbed
we
had dabbed
they
had dabbed
PAST PERFECT CONTINUOUS
I
had been dabbing
you
had been dabbing
he/she/it
had been dabbing
we
had been dabbing
they
had been dabbing
PRESENT
I
dab
you
dab
he/she/it
dabs
we
dab
they
dab
PRESENT CONTINUOUS
I
am dabbing
you
are dabbing
he/she/it
is dabbing
we
are dabbing
they
are dabbing
PRESENT PARTICIPLE
dabbing
PRESENT PERFECT
I
have dabbed
you
have dabbed
he/she/it
has dabbed
we
have dabbed
they
have dabbed
PRESENT PERFECT CONTINUOUS
I
have been dabbing
you
have been dabbing
he/she/it
has been dabbing
we
have been dabbing
they
have been dabbing
PRESENT SUBJUNCTIVE
he/she/it
dab
SIMPLE PAST
I
dabbed
you
dabbed
he/she/it
dabbed
we
dabbed
they
dabbed
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