nib
UK: nɪb | US: nɪb
n. 1. The pointed end of a pen, especially a dip pen or fountain pen, which contacts the writing surface.
n. 2. (Archaic) A bird’s beak or bill.
The word "nib" originates from Middle Dutch nibbe or Middle Low German nibbe, meaning "beak" or "point." It entered English in the late 16th century, initially referring to a bird’s beak. By the 17th century, it evolved to describe the pointed tip of a pen, reflecting its functional similarity to a beak’s precision. The word’s compact structure and monosyllabic form are typical of Germanic roots, retaining its core meaning of a tapered, functional tip.
The fountain pen’s gold nib glided smoothly across the paper.
He carefully adjusted the nib to improve his handwriting.
(Archaic) The sparrow pecked at the crumbs with its tiny nib.
A damaged nib can cause ink to blot unevenly.
Calligraphers often prefer flexible nibs for expressive strokes.