nip

To go somewhere quickly, usually for a short visit or to get something.

• I'll nip out for bread.
• She nipped home to collect her keys.
• Could you nip round to check on Grandma?

How to use it: nip to somewhere (I'll nip to the shop for bread.); nip out for something (She nipped out for some milk.)

Similar words: pop, go quickly

Common phrases: nip to something, nip out, nip round, nip back

To bite or pinch quickly, or remove a small piece by biting, pinching, or cutting.

• The dog nipped my hand.
• She nipped off the damaged leaves.
• Why does your puppy keep nipping at my shoes?

How to use it: nip at someone/something (The puppy nipped at my ankle.); nip something off (Nip the dead flowers off with scissors.)

Similar words: bite, pinch, clip

Common phrases: nip at someone, nip something off, nip someone's finger

A quick, small bite, often made while playing.

• The puppy gave her a nip.
• A playful nip on my ankle made me laugh.
• The kitten's little nips did not hurt.

How to use it: a nip on something (The puppy gave me a nip on the finger.)

Similar words: bite

Common phrases: playful nip, give a nip, gentle nip

A slight, sharp feeling of cold in the air.

• There is a nip in the air.
• The morning nip made me reach for my jacket.
• We felt the first nip of autumn as we walked home.

Similar words: chill

Common phrases: nip in the air, a sharp nip, autumn nip