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Nabbing Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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nabbing

[ˈnæb.ɪŋ ]

Definition

Context #1 | Verb

informal theft

Nabbing refers to the act of stealing or taking something quickly or clandestinely. It is often used in informal contexts to describe swift or opportunistic theft. The term carries a connotation of sneakiness and is often associated with petty crime. Nabbing can also imply a sense of getting away with something quickly, without being caught, suggesting a level of skill or cunning on the part of the thief.

Synonyms

pilfering, snatching, stealing, thieving.

Examples of usage

  • He was caught nabbing a candy bar from the store.
  • The burglars were nabbing jewelry during the night.
  • She noticed someone nabbing her wallet from the table.
  • They were nabbing tickets to the concert before they sold out.

Translations

To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.

Interesting Facts

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.

Origin of 'nabbing'

Main points about word origin

  • '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.

The term 'nabbing' is derived from the verb 'nab', which is believed to have originated in the early 19th century. Its roots are traced back to the British dialect, where 'nab' meant to catch or seize something. The precise origin of the word is uncertain, but it is thought to be related to the word 'nabber', which described a thief or someone who quickly seizes an opportunity. Over time, 'nabbing' evolved into a term commonly used in informal English to describe the act of stealing. The word has since gained currency in both British and American English, often used in a playful or colloquial manner. Its catchy sound and ease of use have made it popular in casual conversations and media, further embedding it into everyday language.

Word Frequency Rank

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.