Pronunciation: [dˈɪb] (IPA) 
The word "Dib" is spelled with three letters - D, I, and B. It is pronounced as /dɪb/, where the initial letter 'D' is pronounced with a voiced dental plosive sound, the vowel 'I' is pronounced as a short 'i' sound, and the final letter 'B' is pronounced as a voiced bilabial plosive sound. The word 'Dib' has various meanings, such as a small dip or a valley, to eat or drink greedily, or an Arabic name meaning 'Bear'.
Dib is a verb that has multiple meanings. Its primary definition refers to the act of making shallow and small cuts or incisions into the surface of something with a sharp-edged instrument, such as a knife or a chisel. Dibbing is commonly used in gardening, particularly when transplanting seedlings or bulbs, where a small hollow hole is made in the soil to accommodate the plant. In this context, dibbing helps establish firm contact between the plant and the ground, aiding in its growth.
However, "dib" can also have other definitions depending on the context. It can be seen as a noun referring to a pointed or sharpened instrument used for dibbing, such as a dibber – a handheld tool with a sharp end specifically designed for creating planting holes.
In some dialects, particularly in the north of England and Scotland, "dib" can also be used as a slang term or a colloquial expression. It means to quickly and lightly push someone or something, usually with your finger, commonly used in playful or teasing situations. This use of "dib" can be synonymous with "poke" or "tap," and it is often used between friends or among children.
In summary, "dib" is a versatile word that typically refers to the act of making shallow cuts or incisions, either in a gardening context or as a slang term for pushing someone lightly.
The word "Dib" is believed to have originated from the Scottish and Northern English dialects. It is primarily used in Northumberland, Durham, and parts of Scotland. The exact etymology of the word is uncertain, but it has been proposed to derive from the Old Norse word "depill", meaning "a slight hollow or depression". "Dib" can refer to a small indentation or shallow pool of water, especially found on a pebbly or sandy beach. It can also be used to describe a puddle or a small amount of liquid.
