Nipping: meaning, definitions and examples

Used to describe a cold that is sharp and makes you feel a bit uncomfortable. It can also mean a small, quick bite. Usually, it's associated with slight discomfort rather than severe pain.

• The nipping wind made her pull up her scarf a bit tighter.
• The puppy has a habit of nipping at my fingers playfully.

Describes a very cold temperature that feels harsh and intense. It can also describe a comment that is very sharp and hurtful.

• She shivered in the biting cold of the early morning.
• His biting remarks left her feeling upset and embarrassed.

Used to describe something that is cold enough to make you shiver. It can also describe something frightening or disturbing.

• They felt a chilling breeze as they walked along the deserted beach.
• The movie's chilling scenes left the audience in silence.

Describes cold that feels as though it is cutting through you. It gives an impression of extreme, uncomfortable cold. It can also describe words that are extremely hurtful or sharp.

• The cutting wind made it hard for them to stand outside for long.
• Her cutting words made him regret coming to the party.

Typically used to describe a quick, small bite or pinch that may cause a slight pain or discomfort.

• The puppy kept nipping at my fingers
• The cold wind was nipping at my face

General term for slicing or severing something. Can refer to a physical injury or an act of reducing something, like costs or time.

• She got a cut on her finger while chopping vegetables
• The company decided to cut its workforce by 10%

Used mainly in medical or surgical settings to describe a precise cut made into the body tissue.

• The surgeon made a small incision to remove the appendix
• The doctor examined the incision site for signs of infection

Describes a V-shaped cut or indentation. Often used to indicate a level, rank, or degree.

• He carved a notch on the tree to mark the trail
• She took her performance up a notch