Nippy

Part of speech: adjective

Pronunciation: /ˈnɪpi/

Definitions

1. Marked by a sensation of coldness that is sharp and invigorating, often referring to chilly weather or brisk air
2. Describing a state that combines briskness and biting cold, often felt in outdoor conditions
3. Characterized by an invigorating chill that can imply a sharpness, particularly in relation to weather or temperature

Etymology: "Nippy" is a plain formation: the adjective is built from "nip" and the suffix "-y", meaning "having the qualities of" or "characterised by". The base verb "nip" is the older word, and it carries the sense that gives "nippy" its bite: to pinch or squeeze sharply, which is also where the idea of a sudden, stinging cold comes from. The suffix itself has a long pedigree. The ending traces back through Old English "-ig" to Proto-Germanic roots, and it became the ordinary English "-y" that turns nouns and verbs into adjectives such as "windy" or "chilly". Because "nip" was already in use for a sharp pinch, adding "-y" gave speakers an easy way to describe weather that felt like it was biting at the skin.

Synonyms: chilly, cool, crisp, brisk, sharp

Antonyms: warm, hot, mild, tropical, balmy