Word Noun
dab
n.
countable
B2 Upper Intermediate US /ˈdæb/ UK /dˈæb/ dab UK spelling dabbed, dabs
Definition
n.a small amount of something, like a liquid or cream, that you put on a surface with a quick touch. It can also be a quick, light movement.
n.a small quantity of a substance applied to a surface; a light, tapping motion. Often used in the context of applying paint, makeup, or ointment.
Examples
“She applied a dab of perfume to her wrist.”
“The artist used a small dab of blue paint to highlight the reflection in the water.”
“With a careful dab of the antiseptic on the wound, the nurse bandaged the patient's arm and instructed him to keep the area dry for twenty-four hours.”
This entry
Level B2 · Upper Intermediate
Frequency Frequent
Updated