Zip: meaning, definitions and examples

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zip

[zɪp ]

Definitions

^{Context #1 | Noun}

fastener

A device consisting of two flexible strips of metal with interlocking projections closed or opened by pulling a slide along them, used to fasten garments, bags, and other items.

Synonyms

closure, fastener, zipper.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
zip	Commonly used in British English to refer to the fastening mechanism on clothing, bags, etc. It can also be used as a verb meaning to fasten something using a zip. Don't forget to zip your jacket before you go outside. The bag was open, so I zipped it closed.
zipper	Commonly used in American English to refer to the fastening mechanism on clothing, bags, etc. It can also be used as a verb meaning to fasten something using a zipper. My zipper got stuck and I couldn't open my backpack. She quickly zipped up her dress.
fastener	A general term for any device used to secure or close something. This can include zips, buttons, hooks, etc. Usually used in more technical or descriptive contexts. This coat has a variety of fasteners, including buttons and a zip. The fastener on my suitcase broke during the trip.
closure	Refers broadly to any device used to close or fasten something, not limited to zips. Can also mean the act or process of closing. The closure of the bag was damaged, so it wouldn't stay shut. They announced the closure of the shop.

Examples of usage

She zipped up her jacket before going outside.
The zip on his bag broke, so he had to tape it shut.

^{Context #2 | Verb}

move quickly

Move or act very quickly.

Synonyms

dart, speed, whiz.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
zip	Used informally to describe moving very quickly, often in a small or confined space. It can also refer to fastening something with a zipper. He had to zip back home to grab his wallet. She zipped up her jacket before heading out into the cold.
speed	Generally refers to the rate at which someone or something moves. It can be used in various contexts, such as driving, running, or progress in tasks. He loves to speed down the highway on his motorcycle. She was amazed at the speed of his typing.
dart	Describes a quick, sudden movement, often with a sense of urgency or stealth. The cat darted across the room to catch the toy. She darted out of the room as soon as the meeting ended.
whiz	Usually denotes a high level of skill or efficiency, often accompanied by fast movement. It can also be used to describe the sound made by something moving quickly. She's a whiz at solving puzzles. I heard the ball whiz past my head.

Examples of usage

The car zipped past us on the highway.
He zipped through the crowd to catch the bus.

Translations

Translations of the word "zip" in other languages:

🇵🇹 zipar

🇮🇳 ज़िप

🇩🇪 Reißverschluss

🇮🇩 resleting

🇺🇦 блискавка

🇵🇱 zamek błyskawiczny

🇯🇵 ジッパー

🇫🇷 fermeture éclair

🇪🇸 cremallera

🇹🇷 fermuar

🇰🇷 지퍼

🇸🇦 سحاب

🇨🇿 zip

🇸🇰 zips

🇨🇳 拉链

🇸🇮 zadrga

🇮🇸 rennilás

🇰🇿 сірмелі

🇬🇪 ზიპერი

🇦🇿 fermuar

🇲🇽 cierre

Etymology

The word "zip" originated in the early 20th century as an onomatopoeic word imitating the sound of a fast movement or the closing of a zipper. It is commonly used in both noun and verb forms to describe fastening or moving quickly. The invention of the zipper as a fastening device revolutionized the clothing industry, making garments easier to put on and take off. Today, the word "zip" is widely recognized and used in everyday language.

Word Frequency Rank

With rank #17,241, this word belongs to specialized vocabulary. While not common in everyday speech, it enriches your ability to express complex ideas.

...
17238 tubercular
17239 inguinal
17240 obstinacy
17241 zip
17242 glitter
17243 kinematic
17244 rind
...