verb

bob

to bob, to move up and down

The apple was bobbing in the water.

The apple was bobbing in the water.

She bobbed her head in agreement.

She bobbed her head in agreement.

((sth.)) to move up and down The apple was bobbing in the water.

((one's head)) to move one's head quickly She bobbed her head in agreement.

Synonyms: nod, dip, bounce, duck

Possibly from Middle English 'bobben' (to strike, buffet). Likely of onomatopoeic origin.

Think of 'bobbing for apples' at Halloween. The apples 'bob' up and down in the water.

This page is designed for learning support. Please use it as a learning reference, not as a formal reference.