nip
UK[nɪp]US[nɪp]
v
to pinch, squeeze, or bite sharply
v
to remove by pinching or clipping
v
to check the growth or development of
n
a sharp pinch, squeeze, or bite
n
a small quantity of liquor
Etymology
The verb 'nip' originates from Middle English 'nippen', a word of Germanic descent, likely related to Dutch 'nippen' meaning 'to sip' and Low German 'nippen' meaning 'to pinch'. Its core semantic thread involves a quick, sharp, often small action, whether pinching, biting, or taking a small drink. This conceptual link between a brief, sharp physical sensation and a small, swift action (like sipping or hindering growth) has been maintained from its early Germanic roots into its modern range of meanings, including the figurative sense of 'nipping something in the bud'.
Analysis
This word is a simplex form of Germanic origin. It is not productively composed of separable morphemes in modern English.
Examples
A sudden frost can nip the early flower buds.
The puppy might gently nip your fingers during play.
He took a quick nip of whiskey to ward off the chill.