- Dab refers to an action which began as a dance move but is also used as a gesture when the speaker says or responds to something about which they are pleased or proud. May occasionally be done spontaneously, or someone may appear to offer a high-five and dab at the last moment instead. It is possible that the word is connected to a different word dab, meaning to blot at something, but the connection is not clear, and the words are most likely homophones.
Dab
other word formation type novel creation; verb
a dance move or gesture in which the arms are brought quickly up and to the side with elbows bent and hands straight
Etymology : novel creation
Source : “I knew you wouldn’t dab” One student successfully high-fiving another. 10/16
Last modified: 2 December 2016