dab out
In real, traceable use. Part of the curated seed collection; community review is coming.
Sense 1
To dab (to press lightly in a repetitive motion with a soft object without rubbing) using paint to produce a desired effect.
Sources & notes
Adapted from English Wiktionary (CC BY-SA 4.0, retrieved 2026-07-30 via kaikki.org).
Sense 2
To remove using a dabbing motion.
Sources & notes
Adapted from English Wiktionary (CC BY-SA 4.0, retrieved 2026-07-30 via kaikki.org).
Sense 3
To mark or press numbers with a dauber (marker for bingo cards) or, by extension, with a finger (e.g. on a phone pad).
Sources & notes
Adapted from English Wiktionary (CC BY-SA 4.0, retrieved 2026-07-30 via kaikki.org).
Common questions
What does “dab out” mean?
To dab (to press lightly in a repetitive motion with a soft object without rubbing) using paint to produce a desired effect.
Is “dab out” formal or informal?
No register label has been reviewed yet — treat it as neutral and check the usage notes above.