jab
/dʒæb/
NOUN
1. A quick, sharp blow
A short, quick thrust or strike, typically delivered with a fist, finger, or pointed object.
1.1. Punching and physical fighting
A fast, direct punch used in boxing, fighting, or other physical confrontations.
Synonyms
Examples
- The boxer landed a quick jab to his opponent's face.
- She blocked the jab before it reached her shoulder.
Related Words
- fist
- boxing
- sparring
- uppercut
- hook
1.2. A sharp poke or prod
A quick thrust with a finger or pointed object, often intended to get someone's attention or test something.
Synonyms
- poke
- prod
- nudge
Examples
- He gave me a jab in the ribs to get my attention.
- She felt a sharp jab from the pin.
Related Words
- finger
- point
- prick
- prodding
1.3. A critical or insulting remark
A brief verbal attack or pointed comment intended to criticize, tease, or provoke someone.
Synonyms
Examples
- He made a sarcastic jab at his colleague's presentation.
- Her remark was a subtle jab at the team's poor performance.
Related Words
NOUN
2. An injection
An injection of a substance into the body using a needle, especially a vaccine or medication.
2.1. Vaccination and medical injections
An informal term for a shot administered to prevent disease or deliver medicine.
Synonyms
- shot
- injection
- vaccination
Examples
- I got my flu jab yesterday.
- The nurse gave him a jab before he left the clinic.
Related Words
VERB
3. To strike or thrust quickly
To deliver a short, quick blow or thrust at someone or something.
3.1. Punching and striking
Used when someone delivers a quick punch or thrust, especially during a fight or boxing match.
Synonyms
Examples
- The fighter jabbed at his opponent's chin.
- He jabbed his fist forward and quickly pulled it back.
Related Words
- boxing
- fist
- attack
- spar
- defend
3.2. Poking or prodding
Used when someone pushes a finger or pointed object quickly into or against something.
Synonyms
- poke
- prod
- prick
Examples
- She jabbed him in the arm to make him look up.
- He jabbed the stick into the soft ground.
Related Words
- point
- finger
- sharp object
- pressure
VERB
4. To make a pointed critical remark
To direct a brief, sharp, or sarcastic comment at someone, often to criticize or provoke them.
4.1. Verbal criticism and sarcasm
Used when someone makes a pointed remark that subtly or openly attacks another person's actions, qualities, or opinions.
Synonyms
Examples
- He jabbed at her decision to leave the project.
- The politician jabbed at his opponent during the debate.