Jab
/dʒæb/noun
To poke or thrust quickly and sharply, or a quick sharp blow.
Did you know?The exact origin of English *jab* is uncertain, but it appears in the 18th century with the sense of a quick thrust or poke, and its sharp, abrupt sound fits the violent motion it names.
Etymological Timeline
18th Century
English
jab
“A quick thrust, poke, or sharp blow.”
18th Century
Scots/English dialect
jab
“To poke or thrust sharply.”
Unknown
Uncertain
jab
“Probably onomatopoeic or from a regional dialect source; the deeper origin is not securely established.”
Modern English
English
jab
“To thrust or poke quickly; also a quick sharp blow, especially in boxing.”