Dob is a slang word that usually means to report, inform on, or betray someone, especially by telling authorities or other people about what they did. In some places, it can also mean to hit something or someone lightly, depending on the context.
People use dob in everyday speech when talking about someone “telling on” another person. For example, a child might say, “Don’t dob on me,” meaning “Don’t tell the teacher or parent what I did.” The meaning depends on where and how it is used, so context is important.
Meaning & Usage
In common usage, dob often means to inform against someone or reveal their actions. It is usually informal and can sound negative, especially when someone feels betrayed.
Examples
“He dobbed me in to the teacher.”
“Don’t dob on your friends.”
“She dobbed him for cheating.”
Is “dob” a formal word?
No, dob is informal and is mostly used in casual speech.
Does “dob” always mean to report someone?
No. In some contexts, it can also mean to hit lightly, but that use is less common in everyday conversation.
Is “dob” used in American English?
It is more common in some other varieties of English, especially informal speech, than in American English.
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