Main Entry:

¹tab

Pronunciation:

\ˈtab\

Function:

noun

Usage:

often attributive

Etymology:

origin unknown

Date:

1607

1 a: a short projecting device: as (1): a small flap or loop by which something may be grasped or pulled (2): a projection from a card used as an aid in filing b: a small insert, addition, or remnant c: appendage, extension ; especially : one of a series of small pendants forming a decorative border or edge of a garment d: a small auxiliary airfoil hinged to a control surface (as a trailing edge) to help stabilize an airplane in flight — see airplane illustration2 [partly short for ¹table; partly from sense 1] a: close surveillance : watch <keep tabs on trends> b: a creditor's statement : bill, check c: cost <the tab for the new program>3 [by shortening] a: tabloid b: tablet4 [short for tabulator] : a key on a keyboard especially for arranging data in columns