jab — to push something pointed quickly and forcefully into something else
Part of speech: VERB
Definition: to push something pointed quickly and forcefully into something else
Pronunciation (IPA): /dʒæb/
Example Sentences
- The mosquito tried to jab me, but I jabbed it first with my finger!
- She jabbed the elevator button repeatedly, as if that would make it come faster.
- The doctor's jab was so gentle that I barely felt the injection.
jab
VERB[/dʒæb/]
to push something pointed quickly and forcefully into something else

Quick forceful push with pointed object

Throw a jab while you grab from the cab!
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🎤Pronunciation
🌳Etymology
Origin
Jab emerged in the mid-15th century from the Middle English verb jobben, meaning 'to peck' or 'to thrust'. The word originated in Scottish dialect before gradually spreading into standard English usage.
Breakdown
jobben (to peck, thrust) → jab; the final -en suffix was dropped as the word became established in English, leaving the core jab meaning a quick, sharp thrust or poke.
🎵Rhyme
🔗Collocations
📝Examples
“The mosquito tried to jab me, but I jabbed it first with my finger!”
“She jabbed the elevator button repeatedly, as if that would make it come faster.”
“The doctor's jab was so gentle that I barely felt the injection.”
“He made a verbal jab about her cooking, which really hurt her feelings.”
📚Related Words
Synonyms
Antonyms
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