Jab

/dʒæb/

Meaning & Definition

noun

A quick, sharp blow or poke.

The boxer delivered a quick jab to his opponent's chin.

A vaccination or injection, particularly one against a contagious disease.

I got my COVID-19 jab last week.

verb

To poke someone or something quickly and suddenly, often with a sharp object.

She jabbed him in the ribs to get his attention.

To inject a vaccine or medication using a needle.

He went to the clinic to get jabbed for the flu.

Origin unknown, possibly imitative.

jab someone:

To poke or prod someone, often in a playful or aggressive manner.

jab at:

To criticize or mock someone subtly.

take a jab:

To make a critical remark.

To inject, often colloquially used in reference to vaccinations.

I got jabbed at the clinic yesterday.

A quick, often unannounced criticism.

She gave him a jab about his new haircut.