What does nicking mean?
Nicking means making a small cut or notch, usually in a material such as wood, metal, leather, or a cable. The verb is especially common in practical and technical contexts, where even a tiny cut may affect safety or the performance of an object. In informal British and American English, nicking can also mean stealing something from someone or reducing a price slightly. These senses share the idea of taking away or affecting a small amount. The word is related to nick, the shorter form of the verb, and to nickname, although the precise development of the underlying word is uncertain. Nicking is useful when precision matters: it distinguishes a minor cut or adjustment from more extensive damage or alteration.
verbTo make a small cut or notch in something. In informal use, it can also mean to steal something or to reduce a price slightly.
- To make a small cut or notch in a surface or object.
- To steal or cheat someone of something, especially in informal British and US usage.
- To reduce a price, fee, or amount slightly, especially in informal usage.
"She was careful not to nick the cable while cutting it open."
"The sharp tool nicked the edge of the wooden frame."
"Someone nicked the shop for enough money to cover the repairs."
A small nick can be enough to damage a cable, making this modest-sounding word important in trades, safety checks, and everyday care.
Reviewed by Deb Chak, Editor. AI-assisted content curated by RJS Tech Solutions LLP.
Where does nicking come from?
The word comes from the verb nick, which has long been used for making a small cut or notch. The origin of nick is uncertain, although it is often connected with older forms suggesting a notch or a small projecting point. The related word nickname developed in medieval English, originally referring to an added name or a name substituted for a person's ordinary name.
Related word forms
How nicking is actually used
The word is informal in the senses meaning to steal or slightly reduce a price. When describing cutting a material, it is neutral and commonly appears in technical, repair, and safety contexts.
Easily confused with nicking
Nicking means cutting or making a small notch, whereas nudging means gently pushing or moving someone or something.