I. ˈtab noun
Usage: often attributive
Etymology: origin unknown
Date: 1607
1.
a. : a short projecting device: as
(1) : a small flap or loop by which something may be grasped or pulled
(2) : a projection from a card used as an aid in filing
b. : a small insert, addition, or remnant
c. : appendage , extension ; especially : one of a series of small pendants forming a decorative border or edge of a garment
d. : a small auxiliary airfoil hinged to a control surface (as a trailing edge) to help stabilize an airplane in flight — see airplane illustration
2.
[partly short for table (I); partly from sense 1]
a. : close surveillance : watch
keep tab s on trends
b. : a creditor's statement : bill , check
c. : cost
the tab for the new program
3.
[by shortening]
a. : tabloid
b. : tablet
4.
[short for tabulator ]
: a key on a keyboard especially for arranging data in columns
II. transitive verb
( tabbed ; tab·bing )
Date: 1872
1. : to furnish or ornament with tabs
2. : to single out : designate
3. : tabulate