clipper

UK: ˈklɪpə | US: ˈklɪpər

Definition

  1. n. a fast sailing ship of the 19th century

  2. n. a tool or machine for cutting or trimming (e.g., hair clippers)

  3. n. (informal) a person or thing that moves swiftly

Structure
clip <cut>er <noun suffix indicating agent or tool>
Etymology

The word "clipper" originates from the verb "clip," meaning "to cut or trim," which traces back to Old English clyppan (to embrace or cut). By the 14th century, "clip" evolved to specifically mean cutting with shears. The suffix "-er" was added to denote tools (e.g., scissors) or agents (e.g., sailors). The sense of "fast ship" (mid-19th century) metaphorically extended from the idea of "cutting through" water swiftly, akin to how blades cut cleanly.

Examples

  1. The Cutty Sark is a famous tea clipper from the 1800s.

  2. He used electric clippers to trim the hedge.

  3. The new high-speed train is a real clipper.

  4. Barber clippers must be sanitized after each use.

  5. The clipper ship set a record for crossing the Atlantic.