Meaning & Definition of word "Nip"

Nip

/nɪp/

1. A small bite or pinch, usually taken from something.
- Example: She took a quick nip of her drink before speaking.
2. A small quantity of liquor.
- Example: He had a nip of whiskey to warm him up.

1. To pinch, squeeze, or bite lightly.
- Example: The dog would nip at my heels when I tried to run past.
2. To take or consume a small amount of something.
- Example: He nipped a bit of chocolate while baking.
3. To affect or harm something, often used in the context of cold weather.
- Example: The frosty air nipped at my cheeks as I stepped outside.

Middle English nippen, of unknown origin.

nip at someone's heels:

To follow very closely.

nip it in the bud:

To stop something at an early stage.

nip and tuck:

Very close; a tie or dead heat.

pinch:

To squeeze between the thumb and finger.

bite:

To cut or wound with the teeth.

snap:

To break suddenly and sharply.

Meaning: A small amount of liquor.

Example Sentence: Let's have a nip of whiskey to warm up.

Meaning: A quick drink, especially alcoholic.

Example Sentence: We stopped for a quick nip before heading home.