stab

The word “stab” means to pierce or wound someone or something with a pointed weapon such as a knife. In plain terms, to pierce with a sharp object, or, informally, to have a go at doing something.

“Stab” is pronounced stab (/stæb/ in IPA).

Here is “stab” used in a sentence: “The victim was stabbed twice in the arm.”

Words with a similar meaning to “stab” include chef, chib, ching, chive, enthrill and gore.

Depending on how it is used, “stab” can be a verb and a noun.

The word “stab” comes from Middle English. First recorded in Scottish English, from a Middle English word for a pointed stick or stake.

“Stab” is a fairly common word in modern English, usually learned at around the B2 level.

“Stab” has 4 distinct senses listed in this dictionary. The most common is: to pierce or wound someone or something with a pointed weapon such as a knife.

"Stab" specifically implies piercing or wounding with a pointed weapon, often with force and intent to harm, such as stabbing with a knife. "Stick" is a more general term for piercing that does not necessarily imply violence or a weapon, such as sticking a pin into fabric. "Stab" carries a stronger connotation of aggression or injury.

To "take a stab" at something means to make an informal attempt, often without certainty of success, such as "I'll take a stab at answering that question." This usage comes from the noun sense of stab meaning an attempt, not the violent verb sense. It is casual and commonly used in everyday conversation.

A "stab of pain" refers to a sudden, sharp pain, whether physical or emotional, that comes on quickly and intensely. It is often used figuratively for emotional experiences, such as "a stab of guilt" or "a stab of jealousy." The phrase draws on the suddenness and sharpness associated with a physical stabbing motion.