dibs: meaning, definition, pronunciation and examples
B2informal, colloquial
Quick answer
What does “dibs” mean?
A claim or right to something, established by calling 'dibs' on it.
Audio
Pronunciation
Definition
Meaning and Definition
A claim or right to something, established by calling 'dibs' on it.
An informal, non-binding right to have, use, or do something, typically established by calling out the word 'dibs' before others. Can also refer to the game 'dibs' (also known as 'jacks') played with small objects and a ball.
Dialectal Variation
British vs American Usage
Differences
Used in both varieties, but slightly more common and deeply established in American English. The game of 'dibs' (jacks) is more commonly known as 'knucklebones' or 'fivestones' in the UK.
Connotations
Both share connotations of childishness, informality, and fairness. It is not used in formal contexts in either variety.
Frequency
More frequent in American English.
Grammar
How to Use “dibs” in a Sentence
[Person] has dibs on [Object][Person] calls dibs on [Object]Dibs on [Object]!Vocabulary
Collocations
Examples
Examples of “dibs” in a Sentence
verb
British English
- He quickly dibsed the last biscuit.
- No one had dibsed the window seat yet.
American English
- I'm dibsing shotgun for the ride home!
- She dibsed the remote control before anyone else could.
Usage
Meaning in Context
Business
Rare, perhaps humorously in internal, informal negotiations over resources or tasks.
Academic
Virtually never used.
Everyday
Common in family and peer-group contexts to decide turns or who gets something.
Technical
Not used.
Vocabulary
Synonyms of “dibs”
Vocabulary
Antonyms of “dibs”
Watch out
Common Mistakes When Using “dibs”
- Using it as a countable noun ('I have three dibs'), using it in formal writing, omitting 'on' ('I have dibs the front seat').
FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions
Yes, it is a recognised informal word in major dictionaries, though it is not used in formal contexts.
The etymology is uncertain but is likely a shortening and alteration of an earlier children's word 'dibstones' (a game played with small stones or knucklebones). Its use meaning 'a claim' dates to the early 20th century.
Yes, informally (e.g., 'He dibsed the last cookie'). This usage is more common in speech than in writing.
It means having the first choice or the right to claim something before anyone else.
A claim or right to something, established by calling 'dibs' on it.
Dibs is usually informal, colloquial in register.
Dibs: in British English it is pronounced /dɪbz/, and in American English it is pronounced /dɪbz/. Tap the audio buttons above to hear it.
Phrases
Idioms & Phrases
- “First dibs”
- “I've got dibs on that”
Learning
Memory Aids
Mnemonic
Think of children shouting "DIBS!" to BAG something. The 'B' in dibs can remind you of 'Bag'.
Conceptual Metaphor
CLAIM IS TERRITORY (staking a claim, calling it).
Practice
Quiz
In which context is 'dibs' LEAST appropriate?