“Dibs” is an informal English slang term used when someone wants to claim something before other people do. You may hear it in everyday conversation, especially among friends, classmates, siblings, or coworkers.
This reference explains what “dibs” means, where it comes from, how to use it naturally, and which words or phrases you can use instead.
Dibs Meaning
Key Takeaways
- “Dibs” means the right to claim or choose something first.
- The common phrase is “call dibs on something”.
- It is informal and often used in friendly or casual situations.
- It is usually used for things like seats, food, rooms, turns, or small privileges.
What Does Dibs Mean?
“Dibs” means a claim to something before anyone else gets it. When someone says “dibs” or “I call dibs on…”, they are saying that they want to be first to choose or use something.
For example, if there is one slice of pizza left and someone says, “Dibs!”, they are claiming that slice before anyone else.
- Dibs on the front seat!
- I call dibs on the last cookie.
- She called dibs on the window seat.
Usage note: “Dibs” is casual and playful. It is not usually used in formal situations or serious legal contexts. It does not always mean that the person truly owns the thing; it simply means they are claiming first choice in an informal way.
Origin of Dibs
The word “dibs” is often connected to an old children’s game called dibstones. In this game, small objects such as stones or bones were tossed and caught. Over time, the word became associated with small claims, turns, or winnings.
Later, “dibs” developed into the modern slang meaning of claiming something first. Today, it is commonly used in everyday English when people want to choose or reserve something before others do.
How to Use “Dibs”
The most common structure is:
- call dibs on + noun
Here are some examples:
- I call dibs on the sofa.
- He called dibs on the biggest room.
- We called dibs on the table by the window.
You can also simply say “Dibs!” when the thing you want is already clear from the situation.
- There is one cupcake left.
- Dibs!
Common Situations Where People Use “Dibs”
1. Choosing a Seat
People often use “dibs” when choosing where to sit.
- Dibs on the front seat!
- I call dibs on the window seat.
- She called dibs on the chair near the fan.
2. Claiming Food
“Dibs” is also common when people want the last piece of food or a favorite item.
- Dibs on the last slice of pizza.
- I call dibs on the chocolate donut.
- He called dibs on the biggest piece of cake.
3. Choosing a Room or Space
Friends, siblings, or roommates may use “dibs” when choosing rooms or shared spaces.
- I call dibs on the room with the balcony.
- My sister called dibs on the top bunk.
- They called dibs on the quiet study room.
4. Taking a Turn or Opportunity
You can use “dibs” when you want the first turn or first chance to do something.
- Dibs on going first!
- I call dibs on choosing the next song.
- He called dibs on using the computer after lunch.
Other Meanings of Dibs
In modern English, the main meaning of “dibs” is the right to claim or choose something first. In older or less common usage, “dibs” has also been used to mean a small amount of money, but this meaning is rare today.
For most English learners, the important meaning to remember is:
- dibs = first claim or first choice
Example Conversations
Example 1: Choosing a Seat
- Friend 1: Who wants to sit in the front?
- Friend 2: Dibs on the front seat!
- Friend 1: Okay, you got it.
Example 2: Sharing Food
- Person A: There is one slice of pizza left.
- Person B: I call dibs!
- Person A: Fine, but I get the last cookie.
Example 3: Choosing a Room
- Sibling 1: This room has the best view.
- Sibling 2: I call dibs on it!
- Sibling 1: You always call dibs first.
Example 4: At Work
- Co-worker 1: There is one desk left near the window.
- Co-worker 2: I call dibs on that desk.
- Co-worker 1: That was fast!
Alternatives to “Dibs”
There are several words and phrases you can use instead of “dibs”, depending on the situation.
Casual Alternatives
- I call it.
- I want that one.
- That one is mine.
- I get first choice.
- I choose that one.
More Neutral or Formal Alternatives
- claim
- reserve
- choose first
- take
- select
Example Replacements
- I call dibs on the window seat. → I want the window seat.
- She called dibs on the last cookie. → She claimed the last cookie.
- He called dibs on the first turn. → He chose to go first.
Is “Dibs” Polite?
“Dibs” is usually friendly and playful, but it can sound childish or selfish if used in the wrong way. It is best used with friends, family, or people you know well.
In more serious situations, use clearer and more polite language.
- Could I take the window seat?
- Would it be okay if I used this desk?
- May I choose first?