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.

She coped by dabbing at her face with a small navy blue towel that magically appeared from under the table.

From Los Angeles Times • Dec. 11, 2025

“He never told anyone what to say,” she said, occasionally dabbing her eyes with a tissue as she spoke.

From The Wall Street Journal • Oct. 14, 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

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

Mami is trying to control herself, but she keeps dabbing at her eyes with one of Papi’s handkerchiefs.

From "Before We Were Free" by Julia Alvarez