Word
dab
US/ˈdæb/
UK/dˈæb/
Countable noun
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.”
Examples
simple
“She applied a dab of perfume to her wrist.”
contextual
“The artist used a small dab of blue paint to highlight the reflection in the water.”
complex
“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.”
- Exam level
- CambridgeCambridgeCambridge English QualificationsThe exam suite from Cambridge University Press & Assessment, from A1 Movers up to C2 Proficiency. The benchmark names double as CEFR labels.B2 FirstIELTSIELTSInternational English Language Testing SystemThe 0–9 band test co-owned by the British Council, IDP, and Cambridge. Used for university entry, work, and migration.5.5–6.5TOEFL iBTTOEFL iBTTest of English as a Foreign Language, Internet-Based TestETS's academic English test, the standard route for US university admissions. Scored 0–120, with a 1–6 scale since 2026.1–6 scale: 4.0–4.572–94TOEICTOEICTest of English for International CommunicationETS's workplace English test, big in Japan and Korea. Listening & Reading scores 10–990 and tops out at C1.785–944
- Frequency
- Frequent
- Level
- B2 · Upper Intermediate
- Updated
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