Definition

Noun: A very small, indefinite quantity of something, especially a liquid; a tiny drop or a minute amount.

Usage

The word "drib" is a literary and somewhat archaic term. It is used to describe a minuscule or insignificant amount of a substance, most often a liquid. It is rarely used in modern everyday conversation but can be found in older literary works or used for stylistic effect to emphasize smallness.

Examples

• He wiped away the last drib of coffee from the cup's rim.
• Only a drib of paint remained in the old can.
• The story was told in dribs and drabs over many years.

Advanced Usage

• In dribs and drabs: This is the most common modern usage. It is an idiom meaning in small, irregular amounts or intermittently over a period of time.
  • The news came out in dribs and drabs, confusing everyone.
  • Guests arrived at the party in dribs and drabs.

Variants and Related Words

• Driblet (noun): A synonym for "drib," meaning a small drop or tiny quantity. It is also used in the idiom "in driblets."
  • He saved money, a driblet at a time.

Synonyms

• Drop
• Bit
• Trace
• Smidgen
• Speck

Related Idioms

• In dribs and drabs: In small, scattered, or intermittent amounts.
  • The report was released in dribs and drabs to the press.

Noun

1. a small indefinite quantity (especially of a liquid)
   • he had a drop too much to drink
   • a drop of each sample was analyzed
   • there is not a drop of pity in that man
   • years afterward, they would pay the blood-money, driblet by driblet--Kipling