WordGarden.iogab
C2Pronunciation
UK
- /ɡˈæb/
US
- /ˈɡæb/
Meanings
Verb
to talk casually or at length
Noun
casual talk or chatter
Beyond the definition
To gab is to talk a lot, often quickly and in an easy, informal way. Think of it as friendly chatter, the kind you might share with a close friend over coffee or overhear from a group having fun. It does not always mean the talk is pointless, but it usually is not about anything very serious. If someone has the "gift of gab," they are naturally talkative and good at chatting. The word is often used for light, casual conversation.
Imagine two friends catching up after a long time apart. They might gab for hours about everything and nothing: work, family, movies, and the weather. Or picture a group of shoppers gabbing while walking through a store. The sound of that lively talk can fill a room with energy.
"Gab" describes talkative, often rapid or continuous conversation. It's more than just talking; it implies a flow of words that is relatively unrestrained and usually informal. While "conversation" is a neutral term, "gab" carries a hint of chattiness—sometimes even suggesting the talker enjoys the sound of their own voice!
The origin of the word is interesting: it comes from the Middle English gabban, meaning to mock or jeer. Over time, its meaning softened to simply mean talking, and now it often suggests light, informal chatter. It's rarely used in formal settings; you would not gab during a business presentation.
You are more likely to hear it as a verb, as in "They sat around and gabbed all afternoon," or in the phrase "gift of gab," which means a natural skill for easy, persuasive talking. It can also suggest gossip, though not always in a mean way. For instance, saying "They were gabbing about the new neighbor" implies they were sharing news, opinions, and maybe a little speculation.
So, while it does not always mean meaningless talk, "gab" generally refers to relaxed, flowing conversation, often full of personal details, small stories, and plenty of energy. It brings to mind friendly voices filling the air.
Examples
- 1
Casual plans
We stayed after class and gabbed about our weekend plans.
- 2
Friends
She was in the hallway gabbing with her friends instead of going inside.
- 3
Short chat
I need a quick gab with Maya before the meeting starts.
- Phrasea quick gab
a short informal chat
- 4
Persuasive talk
He could talk his way into almost any job; he's got the gift of gab.
- Phrasethe gift of gab
the ability to talk easily and persuasively
See also
Forms and spellings
4 forms open this card.
Main spelling
- gabnounverb
Forms
- gabsverbnoun
- gabbing-ing formverbnoun
- gabbedpast tenseverbnoun