Nippy: meaning, definitions and examples

Etymology

• This word came from the 19th century, derived from 'nip,' which means to pinch or bite, often used to describe a cold that makes you shiver.
• In language, 'nippy' is often associated with the sensation of cold air that feels almost like a light bite on your skin.
• The transformation of 'nip' into 'nippy' shows how our language evolves to express feelings related to temperature more vividly.

Weather Phenomena

• Nippy weather is typically associated with autumn and early winter, as temperatures begin to drop significantly.
• People often experience a 'nippy' morning when they step outside and feel a brisk chill in the air, sometimes leading to mist or frost.
• Meteorologists often use this term to describe specific cold fronts that cause noticeable drops in temperature.

Cultural References

• In some cultures, the term 'nippy' is affectionately used to describe small, biting animals like certain breeds of dogs that nip playfully.
• The phrase 'nippy out' is commonly used in casual conversations in Britain when referring to cold weather.
• In literature, you might find characters complaining about 'nippy' nights by the fire, emphasizing the coziness of being indoors.

Psychological Impact

• Experiencing nippy weather can influence human behavior, often prompting people to seek warmth and comfort indoors, changing social interactions.
• Cold weather like 'nippy' days is known to evoke feelings of nostalgia, as many associate it with seasonal traditions and festivities.
• Seasonal changes, including nippy air, might affect mood and energy levels, sometimes leading to increased creativity during colder months.

Ranking #38,855, this word is encountered relatively rarely in everyday English. It might appear in literary works or specialized texts but isn't essential for general communication.

• ...
• 38852 diurnally
• 38853 arachnid
• 38854 stormiest
• 38855 nippy
• 38856 unassertive
• 38857 decathlon
• 38858 unsympathetically
• ...