Fab

Part of speech: adjective

Definitions

1. Describing something as extraordinarily good or impressive; informally used to express enthusiasm or approval; relating to a distinctive style or attitude that is fashionable and eye-catching
2. Characterizing an item or event as excellent or highly appealing; colloquially employed to show delight or admiration; associated with flamboyant or stylish presentation often seen in entertainment and fashion
3. Indicating remarkable quality or attractiveness; used in casual speech to convey excitement or praise; connected with a vibrant and trendy persona or aesthetic often celebrated in popular culture

Etymology: The adjective "fab" is a clipped form of "fabulous," which in turn comes from Latin "fabulosus," meaning "celebrated in fable" or "legendary," from "fabula," a story. Over centuries "fabulous" drifted from "belonging to myth" to "marvelous," so by the time "fab" appeared, the original sense of a tale had almost vanished from everyday use. Shortening is one of the most common ways English creates slangy forms, and "fab" follows that pattern, trimming the first two syllables of "fabulous" down to a single bright sound. The clipped form took on a breezy, informal tone that the full word lacks, which helps explain why it sounds so cheerful and casual in speech. Some sources also connect "fab" to "fabricate," the verb for making or constructing something, which is also related to Latin "fabrica," meaning a workshop or craft. The two words are not the same, and "fab" is usually traced to "fabulous." Its use as a cheerful exclamation of praise came later.

Synonyms: fabulous, fantastic, wonderful, amazing, marvelous

Antonyms: terrible, awful, horrible, dreadful, bad