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Nipping Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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nipping

[ˈnɪpɪŋ ]

Definitions

Context #1 | Verb

cold weather

To cause a small sharp stinging pain, especially because of cold weather.

Synonyms

biting, chilling, cutting.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
nipping

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.
biting

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.
chilling

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.
cutting

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.

Examples of usage

  • The wind was nipping at my cheeks.
  • I could feel the nipping cold on my skin.
Context #2 | Noun

fabric

A slight cut or indentation in the edge of a fabric, usually caused by folding or sewing.

Synonyms

cut, incision, notch.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
nipping

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
cut

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%
incision

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
notch

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

Examples of usage

  • She noticed a nipping in the hem of her dress.
  • The nipping on the tablecloth was a result of poor stitching.

Translations

To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.

Interesting Facts

Cultural References

  • 'Nipping' has been frequently depicted in literature as a playful or mischievous act, often associated with animals.
  • In certain cultures, particularly those with cold climates, 'nipping' cold is a common expression describing the sensation when frost is present.
  • The phrase 'nipping at your heels' often symbolizes competition or pursuit, adding a cultural connotation to the word.

Animal Behavior

  • Dogs often exhibit nipping as a form of play or establishing social hierarchy, particularly among puppies.
  • Certain wildlife, like foxes, are known to nip during hunting, demonstrating a quick and tactical approach to catch their prey.
  • In horse behavior, nipping can indicate playfulness or dominance when interacting with other horses.

Psychological Aspect

  • Nipping can be seen as a form of communication among animals, indicating boundaries or playful intentions.
  • In young children, gentle nipping during play can be a way to explore sensory experiences and learn about their environment.
  • Psychologists note that sensations associated with nipping (both cold and biting) trigger different reactions in humans, often linked to survival instincts.

Weather Phenomena

  • In meteorology, 'nipping' can refer to brisk weather conditions that are sharp and biting, often felt in winter.
  • The term relates culturally to the experience of being outside in cold climates, creating an awareness of severe weather alterations.
  • Nipping cold is often associated with reminders to dress warmly, especially in regions with harsh winters.

Origin of 'nipping'

Main points about word origin

  • The term 'nipping' comes from the Old English word 'hnipian', meaning to pinch or nip.
  • It has been used in various forms since the 14th century, often describing small, sharp bites.
  • The verb form shifted in usage to describe cold sensations and quick bites over time.

The word 'nipping' originated from Middle English 'nippen', which means 'to pinch or be painful'. It has been used in English since the 14th century. The term has evolved to encompass both physical sensations and fabric-related descriptions.

See also: nippers, nips.

Word Frequency Rank

At rank #28,432, this word represents specialized academic or technical vocabulary. It's less frequently encountered but may be valuable in specific contexts.