# dab

/ˈdæb/ (US) · /dˈæb/ (UK) · CEFR B2 · Noun

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/dab
Updated: 2026-05-31

## Definition

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.

For teachers: 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.

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From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.