Nick
/nɪk/
Meaning & Definition
noun
A small cut or notch.
He made a nick in the wood while carving.
A slight indentation or mark.
There was a nick on the surface of the table.
A term of endearment or nickname.
Her friends call her by the nick 'Sunny'.
verb
To cut or make a small notch in something.
Be careful not to nick the paint when hanging the picture.
To steal or take something, especially of low value.
He nicked a candy bar from the shop.
To criticize or damage someone's reputation slightly.
The news article nicked his reputation as a reliable source.
Etymology
Middle English; of uncertain origin
Common Phrases and Expressions
in the nick of time
at the last possible moment
nick of time
an opportune moment just before something is too late
nick someone
to steal or take something from someone
Related Words
cut
To divide or sever something.
bandage
A strip of material used to bind a wound.
notch
A V-shaped cut or indentation.
steal
To take something without the owner's permission.
Slang Meanings
To steal something.
He nicked a bike from the garage.
To go to jail.
If you keep committing crimes, you'll end up in the nick.