Finesentence mobile logo
Sign in Login / Register

Tab: meaning, definitions and examples

🔖
Add to dictionary

tab

 

[tæb ]

Definitions

Context #1 | Noun

computing

A tab is a key on a computer keyboard that allows you to move the cursor to a specific position on the screen, typically used for indentation.

Synonyms

indent key, tabulator key.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

arrow down
Word Description / Examples
tab

Used in computing to refer to the tab character, a key on the keyboard, and in browsers to represent separate windows or pages.

  • Press the tab to move to the next field in the form.
  • Open a new tab in your browser to visit the website.
indent key

Generally used in the context of writing or coding, referring to the key that creates an indentation for better structure and readability.

  • Use the indent key to structure your code properly.
  • Hit the indent key to create a new paragraph in your document.
tabulator key

A more formal or technical term for the tab key, often used in academic or professional settings.

  • The tabulator key can be used to align text in columns.
  • In older typewriters, the tabulator key helps with formatting the document.

Examples of usage

  • You can use the tab key to quickly indent text in a document.
  • She pressed the tab key to navigate through the different fields.
Context #2 | Noun

informal

A tab is a bill or check for goods or services, especially in a restaurant or bar.

Synonyms

bill, check, invoice.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

arrow down
Word Description / Examples
tab

Often used informally in American English, mostly in bars or restaurants when referring to a running total of charges.

  • Can you put it on my tab?
  • I'll pay the tab when I'm done.
bill

Commonly used in both American and British English to refer to a written statement of money owed, especially in restaurants. More formal than 'tab'.

  • Could we have the bill, please?
  • The bill includes a service charge.
check

Typically used in American English to refer to a written statement of charges, especially in restaurants. Can also refer to other forms of verification or examination.

  • Can we get the check, please?
  • The waiter brought our check quickly.
invoice

Used in business and formal settings to refer to a detailed statement of items sold or services provided, showing the amount of money owed.

  • We received an invoice for the office supplies.
  • Please pay the invoice within 30 days.

Examples of usage

  • The waiter brought the tab after we finished our meal.
  • He picked up the tab for everyone at the bar.
Context #3 | Noun

anatomy

A tab is a small flap or strip of material attached to something for holding, pulling, or hanging.

Synonyms

flap, strip, tag.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

arrow down
Word Description / Examples
tab

Commonly used in settings involving labeling or categorizing, often refers to a small projection that helps with opening or closing things, or a section in a web browser.

  • She kept a tab on her expenses.
  • Please open a new tab in your browser.
flap

Typically refers to a piece of material that is attached by one edge and hangs loosely, often found on bags, envelopes, or garments.

  • The bird was injured and couldn't flap its wings.
  • He closed the mailbox flap.
strip

Refers to a long, narrow piece of material, or can be a verb meaning to remove something, often used in the context of taking off layers or removing coverings.

  • He cut the paper into thin strips.
  • The workers had to strip the old paint from the walls.
tag

Often refers to a label attached to an object for identification or a keyword appended for categorizing digital content. It sometimes can also mean a game where players chase and touch one another.

  • He forgot to remove the price tag from his new jacket.
  • You should tag your photos so they are easier to find.

Examples of usage

  • She pulled the tab to open the package.
  • He tore off the tab to reveal the contents.

Interesting Facts

Etymology

  • The word 'tab' comes from the Latin word 'tabula', meaning a small board or a list.
  • It originally referred to a small slip of paper that helped people keep track of accounts.

Technology

  • In computer applications, a tab refers to a clickable button that opens a new window or section, helping to organize information neatly.
  • Web browsers use tabs to allow users to open multiple pages in a single window, improving navigation.

Music

  • In music, tab (short for tablature) is a form of musical notation that tells players how to play an instrument, especially guitars, using numbers to indicate finger positions.
  • Tab notation allows beginners to play songs without needing to read traditional sheet music.

Social Context

  • Using 'tab' can also refer to running a tab at a bar or restaurant, where the total cost is kept on file until the end of the visit.
  • This practice can encourage social interactions and is common in informal dining and entertainment settings.

Linguistics

  • The word 'tab' can also function as a verb, meaning to put something on a tab or to label something.
  • In slang, 'tab' can refer to the act of keeping track of someone's expenses or debts.

Translations

Translations of the word "tab" in other languages:

🇵🇹 aba

🇮🇳 टैब

🇩🇪 Registerkarte

🇮🇩 tab

🇺🇦 вкладка

🇵🇱 zakładka

🇯🇵 タブ

🇫🇷 onglet

🇪🇸 pestaña

🇹🇷 sekme

🇰🇷 탭

🇸🇦 علامة التبويب

🇨🇿 záložka

🇸🇰 karta

🇨🇳 标签页

🇸🇮 zavihek

🇮🇸 flipi

🇰🇿 қойынды

🇬🇪 ჩანართი

🇦🇿 nişan

🇲🇽 pestaña

Word Frequency Rank

Position #7,892 indicates this is an advanced-level word. While not essential for basic communication, it will enhance your ability to understand and create more nuanced content.