Finesentence logo

Nicking: meaning, definitions and examples

🔪
Add to dictionary

nicking

 

[ ˈnɪkɪŋ ]

Verb
Context #1 | Verb

informal context

Nicking is a British slang term that means stealing or taking something without permission, typically in a minor or petty way. It often connotes a light-hearted or non-serious act of theft, distinguishing it from more serious crimes. The term can also be used informally to refer to injuries or small cuts, suggesting a slight or superficial damage. Overall, the usage of 'nicking' encompasses both larceny and minor physical harm.

Synonyms

filching, lifting, stealing, swiping, taking

Examples of usage

  • He ended up nicking a candy bar from the store.
  • Be careful, you might end up nicking your finger while chopping vegetables.
  • She always jokes about nicking ideas from her colleagues.
  • I saw someone nicking a bike outside the café.

Translations

Translations of the word "nicking" in other languages:

🇵🇹 corte

🇮🇳 काटना

🇩🇪 Schnitt

🇮🇩 memotong

🇺🇦 різка

🇵🇱 nacięcie

🇯🇵 切り傷

🇫🇷 coupure

🇪🇸 corte

🇹🇷 kesme

🇰🇷 베기

🇸🇦 قطع

🇨🇿 řez

🇸🇰 rez

🇨🇳 切口

🇸🇮 rez

🇮🇸 skurður

🇰🇿 кесу

🇬🇪 გადაჭრა

🇦🇿 kəsmə

🇲🇽 corte

Etymology

The term 'nick' as a verb dates back to the early 19th century in British English, and is derived from the earlier Middle English term 'nic', which means to make a small cut or notch. The word conveys a sense of lightness or minor harm, which aligns with its use in informal contexts about theft. Over time, the verb evolved in usage to encompass not only minor thievery but also informal references to small injuries. The related noun form 'nicking' further underscores the slight or casual nature of the act it describes. Its use is prevalent in conversations about petty crime or light-hearted theft, reflecting cultural attitudes toward minor illegal activities.

Word Frequency Rank

This word's position of #34,640 indicates it's among the more rare English words. While understanding it broadens your vocabulary, focus on more common words first.