dabble

verb

dab·​ble ˈda-bəl How to pronounce dabble (audio)
dabbled; dabbling ˈda-b(ə-)liŋ How to pronounce dabble (audio)

intransitive verb

1
: to work or involve oneself superficially or intermittently especially in a secondary activity or interest
dabbles in art
2
a
: to paddle, splash, or play in or as if in water
b
: to reach with the bill to the bottom of shallow water in order to obtain food

transitive verb

: to wet by splashing or by little dips or strokes : spatter

Examples of dabble in a Sentence

The ducks dabbled in the stream. She sat by the pool, dabbling her feet in the cool water.
Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Dan Post has dabbled in denim footwear from time to time. Angela Velasquez, Sourcing Journal, 16 June 2025 Forsyth also dabbled in television, most notably as the writer and presenter of the 1989 London Weekend Television series Frederick Forsyth Presents. Chris Koseluk, HollywoodReporter, 9 June 2025 In April, Lowry spoke with PEOPLE about how her son Isaac has been dabbling in a public-facing life and has slowly entered the young influencer space while Lowry keeps a close eye every step of the way. Hannah Sacks, People.com, 6 June 2025 Tyler Anderson, who specializes in fine dining at his renowned restaurant Millwright’s, and only started dabbling in barbecue about six years ago, will compete in the new season of BBQ Brawl. Pamela McLoughlin, Hartford Courant, 28 May 2025 See All Example Sentences for dabble

Word History

Etymology

perhaps frequentative of dab entry 2

First Known Use

1557, in the meaning defined at transitive sense

Time Traveler
The first known use of dabble was in 1557

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Dabble.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/dabble. Accessed 25 Jun. 2025.

Kids Definition

dabble

verb
dab·​ble ˈdab-əl How to pronounce dabble (audio)
dabbled; dabbling -(ə-)liŋ How to pronounce dabble (audio)
1
: to wet by splashing : spatter
2
a
: to paddle or play in or as if in water
b
: to reach with the bill to the bottom of shallow water to obtain food
ducks dabbled in the pond
3
: to work or concern oneself lightly or without deep involvement
they dabble in poetry
dabbler
-(ə-)lər
noun

More from Merriam-Webster on dabble

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