dab
dab¹
Definition
dab (dab)
transitive verb, intransitive verb dabbed, dabbing dab′·bing
- to touch or stroke lightly and quickly
- to pat with something soft or moist
- to put on (paint, etc.) with light, quick strokes
Etymology: ME dabben, to strike, akin to MDu dabben & Norw dabba < ? IE base *dhabh-, to strike
noun
- a light, quick stroke; tap; pat
- a small, soft or moist bit of something a dab of rouge
dab²
Definition
dab (dab)
noun
- any of several flounders (esp. Limanda proboscidea) of coastal waters
- any small flatfish
Etymology: ME dabbe < ?
dab³
Definition
dab (dab)
noun
Brit., Informal an expert; dab hand
DAB
Definition
DAB
Dictionary of American Biography
dab
Synonyms
dab
Synonyms
dab
Usage Examples
Object
- radio: DAB digital radio now covers most of the UK population.
Preposition: on
- brake: A slight dab on the brakes is required before turning in just before the marshals post on the left.
Converse of object
- apply: To stop mosquito bites itching apply a tiny dab of haemorrhoidal ointment.
- put: Sprinkle each cake with sugar and put a dab of butter on each.
Adjective modifier
- portable: The first portable DAB was sold in Scotland by Hifi Corner in 2001.
- little: A little dab will do just enough to make the skin shiny.
- small: In some instances, a small dab in a specific location is all that is needed.
Modifies a noun
- aerial: Thanks in advance Title: Re: DAB aerials, indoor, outdoor or loft?
- radio: I have just got my first dab radio, a Bug.
- hand: Geoff is a dab hand at Indian dishes, which can be enjoyed on the premises or to take away.
- receiver: Portable, in-car and hi-fi DAB receivers are available.
- technology: DAB technology allows broadcasters to transmit far more radio stations within the same comparable amount of radio spectrum compared to FM.
- station: An introduction to UK radio Select town/city Digital radio Lists of all the FM, AM stations and DAB stations in 60 major cities.
Modifying Another Word
- smack: I have 3 pumpkin plants in a 3m x 9m space, just smack dab in the middle.
- gently: Lily Pollen stains Gently dab a cello tape onto the stain.
Preposition: in
- middle: Also, your dates are smack dab in the middle of the summer.
Preposition: of
