As a Noun: 1. The action of putting (or removing) a substance onto (or from) a surface with quick, light, strokes using something like cotton wool. 2. A substance which is regularly dabbed onto cuts and wounds and which kills germs and harmful bacteria. English = antiseptic. As a Verb or Adjective: 1. To put or remove a substance onto or from a surface with quick, light, strokes using something like cotton wool. English = dab. 2. To apply or dab antiseptic on a cut or a wound.