Pronunciation: [nˈabɪŋ at] (IPA) 
The word "nabbing at" is spelled /ˈnæbɪŋ æt/. It is made up of two syllables with stress on the first, "nab." The first syllable is pronounced with the vowel /æ/, as in "cat," and the consonants /n/ and /b/. The second syllable is pronounced with the vowel /ɪ/, as in "pit," and the consonants /ŋ/ and /æt/. "Nabbing at" is a phrasal verb meaning to make a quick attempt to catch or seize something.
"Nabbing at" is a phrasal verb that denotes the act of attempting to catch, seize, or capture someone or something. It often implies a swift or sudden action aimed at apprehending or securing a person or an object. The term "nab" itself means to capture or snatch, and when combined with the preposition "at," it signifies the act of making an effort to grab or hold onto someone or something in a somewhat forceful or determined manner.
The phrase is often used to describe the act of catching a person who is trying to escape or avoid capture. It can be associated with law enforcement agencies or individuals in pursuit of a criminal or suspect. For example, the police were nabbing at the suspect as he tried to flee the scene. It can also be used in everyday situations, such as a game of tag where one person is trying to catch another by reaching out quickly or making sudden movements to capture their target.
Overall, "nabbing at" implies an energetic or vigorous attempt to capture or secure someone or something, often involving quick and decisive action in order to prevent escape or evasion. The term conveys a sense of determination, urgency, and a desire to apprehend or obtain what is being pursued.
The word "nabbing" is derived from "nab", which originally appeared in the mid-17th century. It is believed to be an example of backslang, a linguistic phenomenon where the last syllable or sound of a word is reversed or rearranged. In this case, "nab" is the reversed form of the word "ban". Over time, "nab" evolved to mean "arrest" or "capture" in colloquial English.
On the other hand, the phrase "at" is a preposition commonly used to indicate the target or direction of an action. In combination with "nabbing", it implies that someone or something is being apprehended, captured, or caught.
