How Do You Spell DIBS?

Pronunciation: [dˈɪbz] (IPA)

The word "dibs" is often used in informal conversations to claim something. The spelling of this word can be a bit confusing, as it is not spelled the way it is pronounced. In IPA phonetic transcription, the word is spelled as /dɪbz/. The "d" is pronounced as /d/, while the "i" is pronounced as /ɪ/. The "b" is pronounced as /b/, and the "s" is pronounced as /z/. This unique spelling of "dibs" has been in use since the 18th century.

DIBS Meaning and Definition

  1. The term "dibs" is commonly used as a noun in informal contexts to express a claim or reservation on something, usually an object or an opportunity. It functions as a form of declaring or staking an exclusive right to something, often done in a playful or competitive manner. The term is particularly prevalent among children when they wish to express their desire to have or use something. For instance, if a group of children discovers a desirable toy, one might say "dibs" as a way of asserting their first claim to it.

    The concept of "dibs" is based on an unofficial system of allocation where the person who calls "dibs" is granted primary access, use, or ownership of the specified item or privilege, even if possession or access is not yet feasible. This declaration is generally accepted and honored by others, at least informally. The understanding is that the person who called "dibs" will have priority over others who may have a desire for the same thing.

    "Dibs" is primarily used to establish temporary rights or precedence without formal rules or contracts. It is often found in informal social settings such as playtime, sharing food, claiming seats, or determining who gets the first turn. This term is not legally binding but operates on the understanding of social etiquette and agreements between individuals. In essence, calling "dibs" is a customary way to stake a claim on something that offers an element of control or preference.

Common Misspellings for DIBS

Etymology of DIBS

The exact etymology of the word "dibs" is uncertain. However, it is believed to have originated in the United States in the early 20th century. The most common theory is that "dibs" is derived from the word "dibstones", which refers to small objects like pebbles or chips that were used in a game similar to jacks or marbles. These dibstones were used to symbolize ownership or claim over something or someone. Over time, the word "dibs" became associated with the act of claiming or reserving something for oneself, and it entered popular usage in American English.

Idioms with the word DIBS

  • (first) dibs on sth The idiom "(first) dibs on something" is used to claim or request priority or the right to possess or use something before others. It implies that the person making the statement wants to be the first one to have or benefit from something.
  • put one's dibs on sth The idiom "put one's dibs on something" means to claim ownership or stake a priority position on something, usually before anyone else. It is often used to denote a strong assertion or reservation of rights over a particular object or opportunity.
  • dibs on sth The idiom "dibs on sth" means claiming or reserving something for oneself before anyone else. It is often used to express one's preference or desire to have or possess something.
  • (first) dibs on (something) The idiom "dibs on (something)" means to claim or request the right to have or use something before anyone else. It is often used to assert one's priority in getting or selecting something.
  • have dibs on (something) The idiom "have dibs on (something)" means to claim ownership or possession of something or to reserve it for oneself. It indicates a person's right or priority to have or use something before others.
  • have dibs on sth The idiom "have dibs on something" means to claim or declare one's right to have or do something before others. It implies having the first or exclusive choice or privilege over something.
  • put one's dibs on something The idiom "put one's dibs on something" means to claim or stake a right or ownership over something before anyone else, often by making it clear that it is reserved for oneself or expressing a prior claim on it.
  • have dibs on The idiom "have dibs on" means to claim or assert a right to something, typically before others do. It implies that a person has declared their preference or ownership over something or wants to be given priority.
  • dibs on something The idiom "dibs on something" means to claim or reserve something for oneself before others do. It is typically used in a casual and playful manner, often among friends or acquaintances.

Similar spelling words for DIBS

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