Definition of tab
1a : a short projecting device: such 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 filingb : a small insert, addition, or remnantc : appendage, extension; especially : one of a series of small pendants forming a decorative border or edge of a garmentd : a small auxiliary airfoil hinged to a control surface (such 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 trendsb : a creditor's statement : bill, checkc : cost the tab for the new program
3 [short for tabulator] : a key on a keyboard especially for arranging data in columns
From the M-W Editors
Examples of tab in a Sentence
Insert the tab into this slot to close the box.
a notebook with index tabs
The tab on the zipper is broken.
He ran up a $200 bar tab.
He put the drinks on his tab.
Origin and Etymology of tab
origin unknown
First Known Use: 1607
tab
Definition of tab
tabbed
;tabbing
Examples of tab in a Sentence
After you type your name in the first box, you can move to the next box by tabbing.
1872
First Known Use of tab
1872
TAB Defined for English Language Learners
tab
playDefinition of tab for English Language Learners
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: a small, flat piece on a box, envelope, etc., that can be put into a hole in order to hold two parts together
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: a small, flat piece that sticks out from the edge of something (such as a folder) and allows you to identify and find it easily
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: a small piece of metal, plastic, etc., that is pulled in order to open or close something
tab
Definition of tab for English Language Learners
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: to put a small, identifying label (called a tab) on something
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: to say that (someone or something) will do something or have a particular role or purpose
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: to hit the tab key on a computer or typewriter
TAB Defined for Kids
tab
playDefinition of tab for Students
1 : a short flap or tag attached to something for filing, pulling, or hanging
2 : a careful watch Let's keep tabs on the weather.
Medical Dictionary
Learn More about tab
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See words that rhyme with tab Thesaurus: All synonyms and antonyms for tab Spanish Central: Translation of tab Nglish: Translation of tab for Spanish speakers Britannica English: Translation of tab for Arabic speakers Britannica.com: Encyclopedia article about tab
Seen and Heard
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