stab meaning and definition

STAB noun

Definition of stab (noun)

1. a sudden sharp feeling
   • "pangs of regret"; "she felt a stab of excitement"; "twinges of conscience"
   • synonyms: pang, twinge
2. a strong blow with a knife or other sharp pointed instrument
   • "one strong stab to the heart killed him"
   • synonyms: knife thrust, thrust
3. informal words for any attempt or effort
   • "he gave it his best shot"; "he took a stab at forecasting"
   • synonyms: shot

STAB verb

Definition of stab (verb)

1. use a knife on
   • "The victim was knifed to death"
   • synonyms: knife
2. stab or pierce
   • "he jabbed the piece of meat with his pocket knife"
   • synonyms: jab
3. poke or thrust abruptly
   • "he jabbed his finger into her ribs"
   • synonyms: dig, jab, poke, prod