dig someone in the ribs

Related to word: dig

Pharse

Definition (touch)

  1. To nudge someone in the ribs with your elbow, often to share a private joke or get their attention.

    • During the meeting, John saw the boss fall asleep and dug Tom in the ribs, sharing a knowing glance.

    • She dug her friend in the ribs when the performer made a slip-up on stage, and they giggled secretly.

    • Feeling that the joke had gone a bit too far, he dug his colleague in the ribs as a form of protest.