DictionarynipQuick trip
verb

nip

To go somewhere quickly or briefly.

In the British story, she nips to the shop before tea.

Etymology

The quick-movement sense extends the sharp, brief action associated with nipping. It is separate from abbreviations or unrelated names spelled nip.

More examples

  • He said he would nip upstairs for his coat.
  • The British visitor nipped out to make a call.
  • The dialogue uses nip for a quick trip across the street.

Forms

nip · nips · nipped · nipping

Similar words

pop
Another informal quick trip, especially in British usage.
dash
Dash emphasizes speed and can describe a longer movement.