Pronunciation: [stˈabz] (IPA) 
The word "stabs" is spelled with a final "s" instead of "z" because it follows the rule of voicing. When a word ends in a voiceless consonant (such as "b" or "p"), it is pronounced without vibration in the vocal cords, leaving a puff of air. To add the plural "-s" sound, it is necessary to voice the final consonant. Therefore, "stab" (IPA: stæb) becomes "stabs" (IPA: stæbz). This rule also applies to words like "labs" and "tubs".
Stabs, as a noun, refers to the plural form of the word "stab." A stab is a sudden, forceful thrust or motion of a pointed object such as a knife or sword, with the intention to pierce or wound someone or something. It is a violent and often swift movement characterized by a swift, stabbing action. Stabs are commonly associated with acts of aggression, violence, or self-defense.
As a verb, "stabs" is the third-person singular simple present tense of the verb "to stab." This action-oriented term refers to the act of thrusting or piercing with a pointed object, particularly with the intent to cause harm or injury. In this context, the word connotes a deliberate, forceful action and is often linked to criminal or hostile behavior.
"Stabs" can also have a metaphorical meaning. It can represent sudden or intense feelings or sensations that may not be related to physical violence. For instance, one might use the term "stabbing pain" to describe a sudden, sharp physical discomfort. Similarly, the phrase "stabs of guilt" can convey the sudden onset of intense remorse or regret.
In summary, "stabs" typically refers to the plural form of the noun "stab" or the third-person singular present tense form of the verb "to stab." It denotes forceful, piercing motions or actions with a pointed object, and it can also be used metaphorically to describe sudden and intense feelings or sensations.
* 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.
The word "stabs" has multiple origins, depending on its context and usage:
1. As a verb meaning to thrust or pierce with a pointed weapon, "stabs" derives from Middle English "staben" or Old English "stæppian", which both meant "to pierce" or "to strike".
- Middle English "staben" can be traced back to Old Norse "stefna", meaning "to stab" or "to thrust".
2. As a noun referring to a wound or an act of stabbing, "stab" comes from the verb mentioned above.
- It is believed to have originated from Middle English "stob", meaning "a stake or a pointed stick".
3. In the context of a musical composition, a "stab" refers to a short musical phrase, especially used in jazz or popular music.
