View synonyms for nipper

nipper

[ nip-er ]

Phonetic (Standard)IPA

noun

a person or thing that nips.
Usually nippers. a device for nipping, as pincers or forceps.
one of the two large claws of a crustacean.
Usually . Metalworking. a device on a drawbench for drawing the work through the die.
nippers, Older Slang. handcuffs.
Informal.
1. a small boy.
2. Chiefly British. a costermonger's helper or assistant.
Nautical. a short rope for seizing an anchor cable to a messenger from a capstan.

nipper

/ ˈnɪpə /

Origin of nipper¹

First recorded in 1525–35; nip ¹ + -er ¹

The creature was covered with short hairs, and had a pair of nipper-like jaws, with which he could inflict an ugly wound.

The disposal of poor Nipper's earthly part was a tedious business, but it was accomplished finally.

Nipper Crewe's wheel, well known to every burglar in the state, with the finest kit of breakin' tools made by man hid away in it!

He is quite rightly prouder of that exploit than of all the Nipper's subsequent learning.

Dyou think you know more about fowls than I, who have handled them ever since I was a nipper?

April 24, 2024gallimaufry

[gal-uh-maw-free ]

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