Nabbing: meaning, definitions and examples

Etymology

• 'Nabbing' comes from the older word 'nab', which dates back to the 17th century and means to catch or seize.
• The word may have roots in the Old English term 'nabban', meaning to seize or capture.
• It evolved into informal slang in the 20th century, making it popular in everyday speech.

Pop Culture

• In many heist films, characters are often shown nabbing valuables in thrilling chase sequences.
• The term appears in various TV shows and movies as a playful way to describe the act of stealing something small or petty.
• Nabbing is frequently used in video games, where characters must collect or steal items to advance.

Law & Crime

• Police often use the term 'nabbing' when arresting a suspect unexpectedly or swiftly.
• The act of nabbing is sometimes linked with minor theft, often referred to as 'shoplifting' when done in stores.
• In criminology, nabbing can refer to the quick capture of offenders as part of a larger operation.

Psychology

• Nabbing can activate a rush of adrenaline, creating a thrill that some might find addictive.
• Some studies suggest that quick, impulsive actions like nabbing can bring temporary feelings of excitement or pleasure.
• Despite the negative implications, the impulsiveness associated with nabbing is sometimes linked to risk-taking behavior in adolescence.

Literature

• In classic literature, characters often nab treasures or secret documents, driving the plot forward.
• The act of nabbing is often depicted as a comic relief in novels, where characters find themselves in absurd situations.
• Authors may use the term to symbolize a character's greed or sudden opportunity – it often illustrates deeper themes of morality.

At position #41,157, this word is among the less frequently used terms in English. While interesting to know, it's not crucial for most English learners unless needed for specific purposes.

• ...
• 41154 checkmating
• 41155 shoplifted
• 41156 conniption
• 41157 nabbing
• 41158 instating
• 41159 aquavit
• 41160 purled
• ...