dab

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A dab is a small amount or drop of something, like paint or sauce.

When people say "dab," they often mean to gently put a small amount somewhere, usually with a single touch. You might dab perfume on your wrist, dab oil on a cut, or even dab at tears that are falling. Sometimes you'll see people doing the Dab dance, where they move their arms and upper body in a funky way, often as part of a celebration or to add some humor to a situation.

How common is "dab"?

Word dab is considered rare in modern English.
It appears most frequently in fiction texts and less often in other writings.
Definitions

verb

  • (transitive) To press lightly in a repetitive motion with a soft object without rubbing.

    Example: I dabbed my face with a towel.

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Real examples of "dab" in context

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