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 illustration
2 [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 : tablet
4 [short for tabulator] : a key on a keyboard especially for arranging data in columns