drabb

Drabb is a term used in online writing communities to describe an extremely short work of fiction, typically a microfiction piece shorter than a standard drabble. In practice, drabb can refer to works around 25 to 100 words, with many examples clustering around 50 to 75 words. There is no universally accepted length, and definitions vary by community and platform.

The exact origin of the term is unclear, but it appears in fan-fiction circles and microfiction forums as part of a broader trend toward ultra-short narrative forms. It is generally understood as a close variant of the word drabble, emphasizing brevity and a concise storytelling moment. Because there is no single standard, some communities narrow drabb to about 50–75 words, while others allow wider flexibility.

Common characteristics of a drabb include a focus on a single moment, scene, or twist, and a stand-alone structure or a brief interaction within a larger work. Writers often rely on precise word choice, evocative imagery, and a strong opening or closing line to maximize impact within the tight word count. Drabb are typically posted in online archives, forums, or social media, sometimes in response to prompts.

Relation to other forms: drabb sits near drabble, flash fiction, and microfiction in the family of ultra-short narratives. Some communities treat drabb as a distinct category with its own conventions; others use the terms interchangeably. Overall, drabb is valued for its brevity and creative challenge, while opinions on its artistic merit vary.

See also: drabble, flash fiction, microfiction.