What does stub mean?
A stub is a small remaining part of something, especially a short piece of a cigarette, pencil, ticket, or document. The word often conveys an incomplete or leftover condition: what remains after most of an object has been used or removed. In specialized contexts, a stub can also mean a voucher, a record of payment, or the shortened stalks of grain left after harvesting. “Stubble,” the facial hair of short growth, is related in origin and can be confused with “stub” when describing the lower face. In everyday British and American English, “stub” is especially familiar in the expressions “cigarette stub,” “ticket stub,” and “pay stub,” where it denotes either a physical remnant or a useful record.
A short piece or remainder of a larger object, especially a cigarette, pencil, or ticket.
"She wrote the phone number on the stub of a receipt."
The word can also refer to a voucher, a record of payment, or an abbreviated document.
To strike or push something against a solid surface, especially deliberately. It can also mean to extinguish a fire or flame.
"He stubbed his toe on the edge of the table."
In the sense of extinguishing a flame, “stub” is more literary than the common verbs “put out” and “extinguish.”
The plural is used for individual remnants, records, vouchers, or tickets.
"The cashier handed her a handful of ticket stubs."
A stub is what remains after the useful part is gone—and can still contain a surprising amount of information, as a pay stub or ticket stub does.
Reviewed by Deb Chak, Editor. AI-assisted content curated by RJS Tech Solutions LLP.
Where does stub come from?
The modern English word “stub” developed from Old English roots associated with a short, truncated, or projecting piece. Its development also produced “stubble,” referring to short beard growth or the shortened stalks remaining after grain has been cut. The word has long been used in British and American English for both physical remnants and small records or vouchers.
How stub is actually used
The word is common in both British and American English. In general usage, it can suggest something small, incomplete, or left over; in financial contexts, a pay stub is a detailed record of earnings and deductions.
Easily confused with stub
A stub is a small remaining piece of an object, whereas stubble is the short growth of beard or the shortened stalks of grain left after harvesting.