nippy
UK: ˈnɪpi | US: ˈnɪpi
adj. (of weather) chilly or cold
adj. (of a person or animal) quick or nimble
adj. (of food or drink) sharp or pungent in taste
The word "nippy" originates from the verb "nip," meaning to pinch or bite sharply, which traces back to Middle English "nippen" (to pinch) and possibly Old Norse "hnippa" (to prod). The suffix "-y" transforms it into an adjective, originally describing something that "bites" (e.g., cold weather or spicy food). Over time, it expanded to describe quickness (as if moving with a sharp, brisk action).
The morning air was nippy, so she wrapped herself in a thick scarf.
The nippy little dog darted across the yard.
This cheese has a nippy flavor that lingers on the tongue.
He’s a nippy player on the basketball court.
A nippy wind made the hike more challenging.