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Translate files Stab
/stæb/
Meaning & Definition
noun
a thrust with a pointed weapon.
The stab was deep and required immediate medical attention.
a sudden or sharp pain.
He felt a stab of pain in his chest during the run.
an attempt to achieve something.
They gave it a stab at solving the puzzle, but it was too difficult.
verb
to thrust a pointed weapon into someone or something.
He tried to stab the balloon with a pin to pop it.
to injure someone with a sharp object.
The victim was stabbed in the alley last night.
to make a quick or sudden movement, as if to stab.
She made a stab at catching the falling book but missed.
Etymology
Middle English 'stabben', from Old Norse 'staf', meaning 'to stick or pierce'.
Common Phrases and Expressions
stab in the back:
To betray someone who trusts you.
take a stab at:
To attempt something, especially a guess or estimation.
a stab at it:
An attempt or effort to do something.
Related Words
Slang Meanings
To betray someone unexpectedly.
She really stabbed him when she shared his secret.
To attempt or try something.
I think I'll take a stab at that new recipe.