Meaning & Definition of word "Stab"

Stab

/stæb/

noun:

  • 1. a thrust with a pointed weapon.
    • Example: The stab was deep and required immediate medical attention.
  • 2. a sudden or sharp pain.
    • Example: He felt a stab of pain in his chest during the run.
  • 3. an attempt to achieve something.
    • Example: They gave it a stab at solving the puzzle, but it was too difficult.

verb:

  • 1. to thrust a pointed weapon into someone or something.
    • Example: He tried to stab the balloon with a pin to pop it.
  • 2. to injure someone with a sharp object.
    • Example: The victim was stabbed in the alley last night.
  • 3. to make a quick or sudden movement, as if to stab.
    • Example: 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

stabbing:

The act of thrusting a sharp object into something or someone.

stabber:

A person who stabs.

Slang Meanings of stab

Meaning: To betray someone unexpectedly.

Example Sentence: She really stabbed him when she shared his secret.

Meaning: To attempt or try something.

Example Sentence: I think I'll take a stab at that new recipe.