nip

//nɪp//
B2Frequency Level 12Neutral
Visual representation of nip

Verb

nipInfinitive
nipPresent tense
nippedPast tense
nippedPast participle
nippingPresent participle
nipsThird-person singular
1

To squeeze or pinch sharply, especially with the teeth or fingernails.

The puppy nipped my finger while we were playing.

2

To bite or snap at something quickly.

The puppy nipped at my fingers playfully.

3

To move quickly or briefly to a place (British informal).

I'll just nip to the shop for some milk.

4

(Of cold weather) to cause a sharp, stinging sensation.

The cold wind nipped at my cheeks as I walked outside.

Noun

nipSingular
nipsPlural
1

A sharp pinch, squeeze, or bite.

The puppy gave my finger a playful nip.

2

A small quantity or sip of a strong alcoholic drink.

He took a nip of whiskey to warm himself up.

3

A sharp coldness in the air.

There's a nip in the air this morning.

Synonym