dabbing

American  

[dab-ing] / ˈdæb ɪŋ /

noun

1. the consumption of cannabis by inhaling the vapor of heated cannabis extract oil.

   Experts agree that dabbing is more addictive than smoking.

2. Also called dabbin'.  the act of performing a dance move that involves posing with one’s nose in the crook of a bent elbow at chest level while extending the other arm to the side at or above shoulder level, often as a celebratory posture in sports or other competitions.

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Etymology

Origin of dabbing

First recorded in 2000–05; dab ¹ ( def. ) (in the sense “to consume cannabis” dabbing for def. 1; in the sense “a dance step” dabbing for def. 2 ) + -ing ¹ ( def. )

Example Sentences

Then Goldberg stole the spotlight, having left her seat to take over dabbing duties from their guest.

From Los Angeles Times • Dec. 11, 2025

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

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

I see him dabbing at his eyes with his handkerchief.

From "Shine!" by J.J. and Chris Grabenstein

Related Words

• daub
• smear
• smudge
• swab
• wipe