Meaning & Definition of word "Stub"

Stub

/stʌb/

noun:

  • 1. A short remaining piece of something, such as a post, stick, or ticket.
    • Example: She found a stub of a pencil lying on the desk.
  • 2. The part of a ticket that is retained as a record.
    • Example: Don't forget to keep your ticket stub for the draw at the end of the event.
  • 3. An incomplete or unfinished piece of writing or a preliminary draft.
    • Example: The writer submitted a stub of her novel to the editor for feedback.
  • 4. A truncated or shortened version of a project or proposal.
    • Example: The stub of the proposal was enough to get the initial interest from investors.

verb:

  • 1. To remove the end of something, particularly a plant or tree.
    • Example: They decided to stub the old tree that was in the way.
  • 2. To leave a piece of something remaining after cutting or breaking it off.
    • Example: Please stub the cigarette out before entering the building.

Etymology

Middle English 'stubbe', possibly from a root related to 'stump'.

Common Phrases and Expressions

stub of a pencil:

The short remaining piece of a pencil after use.

stub out:

To extinguish a cigarette or the end of a cigarette.

ticket stub:

The portion of a ticket that is retained after entry.

Related Words

stump:

The part of a tree that remains after the trunk has been cut down.

remnant:

A small remaining quantity of something.

fragment:

A small part broken off or detached.

Slang Meanings of stub

Meaning: In gaming, a stub can refer to a weak or ineffective character.

Example Sentence: That character is such a stub; it can't win any fights.

Meaning: To stub one's toe, referring to accidentally hitting one's toe on an object.

Example Sentence: I stubbed my toe on the coffee table and it really hurt.