nabbed

“Nabbed” is the past tense and past participle of the informal verb “nab.” Its central meaning is to catch someone, especially a suspect or fugitive, although it can also mean to seize or obtain something quickly. The word is vivid but not formal, and it often implies that the capture happened suddenly or without much difficulty: an officer “nabbed the suspect,” or a shopper “nabbed the last one.” A further common use is “nab someone red-handed,” meaning to catch them while committing an offence. In narrative writing, “nabbed” can add energy and a sense of immediacy, while in formal reports a more neutral term such as “apprehended,” “arrested,” or “seized” may be preferable. Although the expression sounds old, the word’s exact historical origin is unknown.

The past tense and past participle of “nab,” meaning to catch or arrest someone, or to seize or obtain something quickly.

Reviewed by Deb Chak, Editor. AI-assisted content curated by RJS Tech Solutions LLP.

Where does nabbed come from?

“Nab” appeared in the late 19th century as an informal term for catching or arresting a person and later for seizing or obtaining something. Its precise origin is uncertain, with no reliably established antecedent. The past form “nabbed” entered regular use through the ordinary inflection of this already informal verb.

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How nabbed is actually used

Informal and especially common in speech, journalism, and narrative prose. It often suggests a sudden capture rather than a prolonged pursuit. The spelling is easily confused with “napped.”

Easily confused with nabbed

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Words and phrases paired with nabbed

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Rhymes with nabbed