a small cut or notch, a prison, to steal something, to arrest someone, to be in perfect condition

in the nick of time, nick of the woods, a nick on the ear

Formal and Informal Expressions of nick

In different contexts, you can replace 'nick' with suitable alternatives. In a more formal setting, 'cut, notch, arrest, apprehend, perfect' is apt. In informal speech or writing, 'prison, jail, steal, swipe' is a commonplace synonym.

nick: Explore its Definition & Usage

nick Definition

1a small cut or notch
2a prison
3to steal something
4to arrest someone
5to be in perfect condition

Using nick: Examples

Take a moment to familiarize yourself with how "nick" can be used in various situations through the following examples!

Example
He got a nick on his chin while shaving.
Example
The thief nicked the wallet from the man's pocket.
Example
The police nicked the suspect at the airport.
Example
The car is in great shape, not a single nick or scratch on it.

nick Synonyms and Antonyms

Synonyms for nick

Antonyms for nick

Phrases with nick

in the nick of time
at the last possible moment; just in time to prevent disaster
Example
The ambulance arrived in the nick of time and saved his life.
nick of the woods
a particular region or neighborhood
Example
I'm from the same nick of the woods as you are.
a nick on the ear
a minor injury or harm
Example
It was just a nick on the ear, nothing serious.

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Summary: nick in Brief

The word 'nick' [nɪk] has multiple meanings as a noun and verb. As a noun, it refers to a small cut or notch, or a prison. As a verb, it means to steal something, to arrest someone, or to be in perfect condition. The phrase 'in the nick of time' means just in time to prevent disaster, while 'nick of the woods' refers to a particular region or neighborhood. 'Nick' can also be used to describe a minor injury or harm.