1 B1 neutral
To remove a liquid or stain from a surface by repeatedly pressing and lifting a cloth or tissue.
"She dabbed out the wine stain with a damp cloth before it could set."
separable
dab out
B1 neutral separable transitive
To remove a substance (such as a stain or liquid) by pressing and lifting gently with a cloth or similar material.
In plain English
To get something out by pressing a cloth on it over and over gently.
What does "dab out" mean?
2 meanings, ordered from most common to least. Color-coded by CEFR level.
2 B1 neutral
To extinguish something small (like a candle flame or cigarette) with a brief pressing motion.
"He dabbed out the small fire on the tablecloth with a wet napkin."
separable
Literal vs figurative
Words literally mean
To dab something until it comes out.
Actually means
To get something out by pressing a cloth on it over and over gently.
Usage tip
Common in household, beauty, and first-aid contexts. The motion implied is light and repetitive — pressing rather than rubbing — to avoid spreading or damaging a surface.
Words that pair with "dab out"
Natural word combinations native speakers use most often.
stain blood ink moisture excess liquid
How to conjugate "dab out"
The five tense forms you'll use most often.
Base
dab out
I/you/we/they
3rd person
dabs out
he/she/it
Past simple
dabed out
yesterday
Past participle
dabed out
have + pp
-ing form
dabing out
continuous
Hear "dab out" in the wild
Listen to native speakers using "dab out" in real YouTube videos — click a clip to watch it on Looplines.
Keep exploring
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