Definitions

dabbing

[dab-ing] / ˈdæb ɪŋ /

VERB

blot up; touch lightly

Synonyms

STRONGEST

daub smear smudge swab wipe

STRONG

bedaub besmear pat peck plaster stipple tap

Example Sentences

Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.

Inside, women are dabbing moisturizers, sampling eye shadows and swabbing lipsticks.

From The Wall Street Journal • Dec. 8, 2025

"You have given him the best birthday gift he could ever have," she said, dabbing away tears and occasionally pausing to collect herself.

From Barron's • Oct. 14, 2025

When she’s asked to imagine her life after “Hacks,” Einbinder’s face suddenly turns pink, a folded tissue appears, and she’s dabbing away tears.

From Los Angeles Times • Aug. 13, 2025

These modern sweaters can feature your favorite band, a dabbing Santa, or obscene holiday innuendo, or they may come with 3D plushie elements that ratchet up the tacky factor.

From Slate • Dec. 12, 2024

Harry left Hermione dabbing her black eye with paste and followed Fred toward the back of the shop, where he saw a stand of card and rope tricks.

From "Harry Potter and the Half-Blood Prince" by J.K. Rowling