noun

dibs

dihbz

Dibs (noun) means an informal claim to have or use something before anyone else. Example: “I called dibs on the front seat before anyone else could.”

noun

An informal claim to have or use something before anyone else.

"I called dibs on the front seat before anyone else could."

intj

Used to declare such a claim.

""Dibs on the last slice!" she shouted, grabbing her fork."

How to use dibs

Learner’s notes

In plain EnglishAn informal way of claiming something first, especially used by kids and casually among friends.

When to use it

Very informal; used mostly in speech, not formal writing.

Common pairings

call dibs dibs on

Word forms

dibsed past tense, dibses singular

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I called _____ on the front seat before anyone else could.

Etymology

Origin disputed; commonly traced to "dibstones," counters used in a children's game.

Rhymes for dibs

nibs

See all rhymes for dibs →

Frequently asked questions

What does “dibs” mean?

The word “dibs” means an informal claim to have or use something before anyone else. In plain terms, an informal way of claiming something first, especially used by kids and casually among friends.

How do you pronounce “dibs”?

“Dibs” is pronounced dihbz (/dɪbz/ in IPA).

How do you use “dibs” in a sentence?

Here is “dibs” used in a sentence: “I called dibs on the front seat before anyone else could.”

What part of speech is “dibs”?

Depending on how it is used, “dibs” can be a noun and an intj.

How many meanings does “dibs” have?

“Dibs” has 2 distinct senses listed in this dictionary. The most common is: an informal claim to have or use something before anyone else.