Dabbed
/dæbd/noun
Past tense and past participle of dab; to touch or apply something with a light, quick motion.
Did you know?In Middle English, related forms of dab and dabble could suggest a light striking or splashing motion, showing how English often turns physical impact into tiny everyday actions.
Etymological Timeline
Middle English
English
dabben
“to strike or touch lightly; to pat or apply in small touches”
15th–16th Century
English
dab
“a light blow, touch, or small amount”
16th Century
English
dabble
“to make small, quick movements in water or a substance; to splash lightly”
Modern English
English
dabbed
“applied or touched lightly and quickly”