nick
UK[nɪk]US[nɪk]
v
To make a small cut or notch in a surface.
v
To steal something.
n
A small cut or notch.
n
A prison or police station.
Etymology
The word 'nick' has a complex and somewhat obscure history, likely originating from Middle English nyke or nykke, which meant a notch or groove. Its ultimate origin is uncertain but may be connected to a Germanic root related to the act of pinching or making an incision. The semantic journey is fascinating: from the concrete idea of a small notch or cut, the word expanded metaphorically. The sense 'to steal' (late 17th century) likely derives from the idea of making off with something swiftly or surreptitiously, as if making a quick 'cut'. The slang meaning for a police station (late 19th century) probably comes from the earlier verb sense 'to capture or arrest', completing its evolution from a physical mark to abstract concepts of theft and custody.
Analysis
The word 'nick' is a simplex word of Germanic origin. It functions as a complete lexical unit.
Examples
He accidentally nicked his finger while shaving.
Someone nicked my bike from outside the shop.
The suspect spent the night in the nick.