Dab Me Up: A Comprehensive Understanding of the Phrase and Its Origin
What Does Dab Me Up Mean?
Dab me up is a phrase that is commonly used in social settings when two individuals want to greet or acknowledge each other. It involves one person extending their closed fist (usually with their thumb out) towards the other individual, who then bumps it with their own fist. It is usually accompanied by a friendly exchange of words, such as “What’s up?” or “How are you doing?”
The act of dabbing up is seen as a sign of respect and camaraderie among friends, acquaintances, and even strangers who share a common interest. It is often performed among members of the hip-hop community, athletes, and the younger generation.
Origins of Dab Me Up
The origin of the dab me up gesture can be traced back to the early ’70s when African-American and Latino communities in New York City started using the fist bump as a form of non-verbal communication. Later on, the gesture was popularized by basketball players in the NBA as a way of celebrating a successful play or victory.
However, the act of fist bumping started to trend globally when Atlanta-based rapper, Skippa Da Flippa, used the phrase ‘dab’ to refer to the act of smoking marijuana and performing a dance move that involved a sudden drop of the head and an exaggerated raising of one arm. The gesture soon became a popular trend among the younger generation, and from there, it evolved into the fist bump greeting we know as “dab me up.”
Dab Me Up: How to Perform the Gesture
To perform the dab me up gesture, one should follow the following steps:
1. Make a fist with your hand and extend your arm out.
2. Tilt your fist slightly to the side, with your thumb out.
3. Allow the other individual to bump their fist into yours gently.
4. Follow up with a verbal exchange or a friendly greeting.
Dab Me Up: FAQs
1. Where did the phrase ‘dab’ come from?
The phrase ‘dab’ was first used by Atlanta-based rapper, Skippa Da Flippa, and it referred to the act of smoking marijuana.
2. Is it okay to dab me up with strangers?
Yes, dabbing up is generally seen as a friendly gesture and can be performed among strangers as a sign of respect or acknowledgement.
3. Can you dab me up virtually?
Yes, in the age of social media and digital communication, dabbing up can now be done virtually. This can be achieved through the use of emojis or virtual fist bumps.
Conclusion
In conclusion, dab me up has become a significant gesture of camaraderie, particularly among the younger generation. Its popularity can be traced back to its usage in the hip-hop community, the NBA, and its evolution into a trendy hand gesture. However, it is important to note that even though dabbing up is generally seen as a friendly and respectful gesture, some people may view it differently, and it is essential to read the social cues before performing the gesture.