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.