What does stab mean?
To stab is to pierce or wound someone or something with a pointed object, usually by making a quick, forceful movement. The word can also describe a sudden movement toward someone, or, figuratively, a brief and often uncertain attempt to accomplish something: “a stab at solving the problem.” As a noun, a stab is an act of piercing, a wound made by a pointed object, or a small attempt. The expression “stab in the back” refers to betrayal, while “stab in the dark” describes an attempt made without sufficient information or a clear plan. Because “stab” evokes abruptness and concentrated force, it often carries a sense of danger, aggression, or inadequacy.
To pierce or wound with a pointed object, or to make a sudden, forceful movement toward someone or something with such an object.
"He stabbed the loaf of bread with the knife."
Figuratively, it can mean to make a brief or uncertain attempt at a task.
An act of piercing or wounding with a pointed object; a sudden thrust or movement; or a brief attempt at doing something.
"She took a stab at assembling the model before deciding it needed new instructions."
The phrase “a stab at” commonly denotes an incomplete or speculative attempt.
The plural is used for individual piercing movements or wounds and, figuratively, for separate brief attempts.
"The witness described several stabs before the attacker disappeared."
To stab in the dark is to attempt something without enough information or a reliable plan.
Reviewed by Deb Chak, Editor. AI-assisted content curated by RJS Tech Solutions LLP.
Where does stab come from?
The word comes through Middle English from an Old French form based on Latin, where related words connect with the idea of a stake or something fixed. Modern English developed separate verbal and noun uses from this inherited root. Its close semantic relatives include forms such as stable and stabilize, which ultimately derive from related Latin roots associated with standing, firmness, or being fixed.
Related word forms
How stab is actually used
In figurative uses, “stab” often suggests a sudden, incomplete, or poorly informed attempt. The phrase “stab in the back” means betray someone, while “stab in the dark” means act without adequate knowledge or guidance.