The Complete Vocabulary Builder Workbook by BETTER WORDS R. B. Skinner

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nab

verb

/næb/

IPA:

Dictionary definition of nab

To capture, seize, or apprehend someone or something, typically in a sudden or unexpected manner.
"The police officer managed to nab the thief after a high-speed chase."

Detailed meaning of nab

When someone "nabs" another person, they catch or arrest them, often with the intention of bringing them to justice or preventing their escape. It can also apply to the act of grabbing or snatching an object swiftly. "Nab" implies a quick and decisive action, usually resulting in the successful capture or acquisition of the target. It is commonly used in the context of law enforcement, where officers nab criminals or suspects, or in casual situations where someone might nab the last piece of cake or an available seat. The term "nab" suggests a sense of taking hold of someone or something in a prompt and sometimes cunning manner, often implying a level of surprise or swiftness in the action.

Example sentences containing nab

1. I quickly reached out and nabbed the last piece of cake before anyone else could grab it.
2. The store owner installed surveillance cameras to prevent shoplifters from nabbing items.
3. He attempted to nab a seat near the front of the bus to ensure a comfortable ride.
4. The security guard nabbed the trespasser before they could enter the restricted area.
5. She skillfully nabbed the fly out of the air with a swift movement of her hand.
6. The undercover agent successfully nabbed the drug dealer in a sting operation.

History and etymology of nab

The verb 'nab' has an interesting etymology. It originated in 17th-century English as a slang term, and its exact origins are a bit uncertain. However, it is believed to be derived from the word 'nab,' which was a 16th-century northern British dialect word meaning 'to snatch' or 'to seize.' This older usage might have influenced the development of the slang 'nab,' which came to mean capturing or apprehending someone or something, often in a sudden or unexpected manner. The etymology of 'nab' reflects its historical association with quick, impromptu actions, and it has persisted in modern English as an informal term for catching or apprehending someone or something swiftly.

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Further usage examples of nab

1. The quick-fingered pickpocket managed to nab the wallet without the victim noticing.
2. The vigilant homeowner nabbed the burglar red-handed and held him until the police arrived.
3. The opportunity was too good to pass up, so he decided to nab the job offer.
4. The eager fan managed to nab an autograph from their favorite celebrity.
5. The clever detective nabbed the suspect by gathering crucial evidence.
6. He carefully waited for the perfect moment to nab the perfect photograph.
7. The determined reporter managed to nab an exclusive interview with the elusive celebrity.
8. The resourceful student always found a way to nab a front-row seat in class.
9. The opportunistic entrepreneur was always on the lookout to nab the best deals.
10. The security guard nabbed the ticket scalper attempting to sell counterfeit tickets.
11. The skilled hacker attempted to nab sensitive information from the company's database.
12. The detective devised a plan to nab the notorious gang leader during a secret meeting.
13. The clever squirrel managed to nab a peanut from the bird feeder without being noticed.
14. The police managed to nab the thief in a daring chase.
15. She tried to nab the last cookie from the jar unnoticed.
16. The detective hoped to nab the suspect before he escaped.
17. He attempted to nab a prime parking spot near the entrance.
18. The eagle swooped down to nab a fish from the river.
19. They plotted to nab the prized artifact from the museum.
20. The paparazzi tried to nab a photo of the elusive celebrity.
21. The quick reflexes of the goalie allowed him to nab the ball.
22. The authorities worked tirelessly to nab the criminal gang.
23. The undercover agent was determined to nab the spy ring.
24. The cunning fox tried to nab a chicken from the coop.
25. The skilled pickpocket managed to nab the tourist's wallet.
26. The ambitious reporter wanted to nab an exclusive interview.
27. She reached out to nab the falling book just in time.
28. The trapper set a trap to nab a cunning raccoon.
29. The store owner installed cameras to nab shoplifters.
30. The talent scout hoped to nab the next big star.
31. The fisherman finally managed to nab a trophy fish.
32. The wildlife photographer aimed to nab a shot of the elusive tiger.
33. The vigilant security guard was ready to nab any intruders.