jab (B2)

noun/verb

Pronunciation: /dʒæb/

Definition

A quick, sharp poke or blow delivered with the hand, a finger, or a pointed object.

Examples

• She gave me a playful jab in the ribs to get my attention.

• The boxer used a series of fast jabs to keep his opponent at a distance.

• The nurse warned that the vaccine injection would feel like a quick jab.

How to Use jab

jab at (phrasal verb)

to make a sharp physical or verbal attack toward someone — "He took a quick jab at the air to warm up his muscles."

give someone a jab (collocation)

to poke or hit someone briefly — "She gave him a jab in the arm to wake him up."

Synonyms of jab

Words with a similar meaning to jab:

• poke
• punch
• injection
• thrust

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