1. Shipping and Mining: In the context of shipping and mining, "dibs" was used by sailors and miners to claim their share or allotment of goods, supplies, or mining claims. It was a way of marking their territory or staking a claim on something before others could do so.
2. Children's Games: Another theory suggests that the phrase emerged from children's games. In games involving toys, treats, or other items, children would call out "dibs" to claim or reserve something they wanted, ensuring that it was theirs.
3. Early Use of "Dib": The word "dib" has other meanings in English. In some regions, "dib" referred to a small amount or a share, particularly in the context of food or money. It is possible that the term "got dibs" evolved from this usage.
4. Shortened Form: Some believe that "got dibs" is a shortened version of a phrase like "got the dibs" or "claim the dibs," which became more concise and evolved into the common expression we use today.
Overall, the phrase "got dibs" is deeply ingrained in American culture and language as a casual and often humorous way to claim something before anyone else. It serves as a verbal "stake" or reservation that is understood and respected in informal contexts.