Slipping

/ˈslɪp.ɪŋ/

Meaning & Definition

noun
the action of slipping or the state of having slipped.
The slipping of the car on the wet road caused a minor accident.
a sudden or unintended loss of grip or support.
His slipping of the cup led to a spilled drink all over the table.
verb
the act of losing one's footing or moving smoothly or quietly.
She lost her balance and went slipping on the ice.
to move quickly and quietly, often in a sneaky or secretive way.
He was slipping out of the room so no one would notice.
to gradually fall or decrease in quality or performance.
Her grades have been slipping since she started her new job.

Etymology

Middle English 'slippen', from Old Norse 'slīpa', meaning to glide or slip.

Common Phrases and Expressions

slipping through the cracks
To be overlooked or neglected.
slipping away
To gradually lose control or awareness of something.
don’t let it slip
To not allow something to be forgotten or missed.

Related Words

slide
To move smoothly along a surface.
glide
To move smoothly and effortlessly.
fall
To drop down from a higher position.

Slang Meanings

To mess up or make a mistake.
I really slipped up on that exam.
To sneak away or depart quietly.
He slipped out before anyone noticed.