stab stab /ˈstæb/

noun

1. Informal words for any attempt or effort  ( shot , stab )
   informal words for any attempt or effort
    He gave it his best shot
   he gave it his best shot
    He took a stab at forecasting
   he took a stab at forecasting
   
2. A strong blow with a knife or other sharp pointed instrument  ( stab , knife thrust , thrust )
   a strong blow with a knife or other sharp pointed instrument
    One strong stab to the heart killed him
   one strong stab to the heart killed him
   
3. A sudden sharp feeling  ( stab , pang , twinge )
   a sudden sharp feeling
    Pangs of regret
   pangs of regret
    She felt a stab of excitement
   she felt a stab of excitement
    Twinges of conscience
   twinges of conscience
   

verb

1. () Use a knife on  ( knife , stab )
   use a knife on
    The victim was knifed to death
   The victim was knifed to death
   
2. Poke or thrust abruptly  ( dig , prod , stab , jab , poke )
   poke or thrust abruptly
    He jabbed his finger into her ribs
   he jabbed his finger into her ribs
   
3. Stab or pierce  ( jab , stab )
   stab or pierce
    He jabbed the piece of meat with his pocket knife
   he jabbed the piece of meat with his pocket knife