Nickel

/ˈnɪk.əl/

Meaning & Definition

noun

A silvery-white metallic element (symbol Ni) with an atomic number of 28, used in making alloys, batteries, and as a catalyst.

Nickel is commonly used to produce stainless steel, enhancing its corrosion resistance.

A U.S. coin worth five cents.

I found a nickel on the ground while walking to the store.

A five-cent piece in the currency of various countries.

In Canada, a nickel is also known as a five-cent coin and has a beaver on one side.

verb

To damage or injure slightly; to nick.

Be careful not to nickel the edge of the table when moving it.

From the German word 'kupfernickel', which means 'copper nickel'.

a nickel's worth

A small amount; often used to signify something of little value.

nickel and dime

To restrict someone financially; to charge small amounts that add up.

nickel my phone

To charge my phone, often referring to a small expense.

copper

A reddish-brown metal used for various purposes, often found in electrical wiring.

silver

A shiny greyish-white metal used in jewelry and coinage.

coin

A piece of metal used as money.

To give someone a small amount of money.

I just need a nickel to buy a soda.

A low-cost item or service.

That movie was just a nickel and a dime.