What does nicked mean?
“Nicked” most commonly describes an object that has been slightly damaged by a small cut, groove, or chip: a nicked cup might still be usable, while a nicked piece of equipment might not. It is also the past tense and past participle of the verb “nick.” In informal British English, “nicked” has the additional meaning of being slightly drunk or intoxicated, and it can also describe someone who has been cheated financially. These meanings make the word particularly useful in idiomatic speech. “Nick” has long been associated with making a small indentation or cut, while its slang meanings developed within informal British language. The word is concise and vivid: saying that an object was “nicked” immediately suggests a minor but definite flaw rather than severe damage.
Damaged by a small cut, groove, or chip.
"The new blade was nicked after a single use."
The standard physical sense in British and American English.
Informally, slightly drunk or intoxicated.
"He was a little nicked after the concert."
Informal, especially common in British and Irish English.
Informal British English, cheated or financially swindled.
"The buyers felt nicked by the inflated prices."
Chiefly informal British English.
Past tense and past participle of “nick.”
"The thief nicked the wallet and slipped away."
One tiny cut can leave something nicked—and in British slang, a few drinks can leave a person nicked too.
Reviewed by Deb Chak, Editor. AI-assisted content curated by RJS Tech Solutions LLP.
Where does nicked come from?
“Nicked” is the past tense and past participle of “nick,” a verb whose detailed origin is uncertain. The verb is long established in the sense of making a small cut or indentation and later acquired informal senses involving theft or cheating. Its best-known slang meaning for being drunk is particularly associated with British and Irish English.
Related word forms
How nicked is actually used
The physical sense is standard British and American English. The alcoholic sense is informal and especially associated with British and Irish English. The sense meaning “cheated” is chiefly informal British English and is less common than the other meanings.
Easily confused with nicked
“Nicked” means cut or damaged, or informally drunk, whereas “nickel” is a metallic element and also a denomination of coin.