What does slippier mean?
“Slippier” is the comparative form of “slippery,” meaning more likely to slide or to cause something to slide. It is especially common in descriptions of wet or icy roads, floors, paths, and other surfaces. The word is useful because it describes a change in degree: a surface that is normally safe may become slippier when it is wet, icy, polished, or otherwise difficult to grip. In everyday speech, “slippier” can also describe a situation that is more uncertain or difficult to manage, although its primary meaning concerns reduced friction and the risk of sliding. It is understood in both British and American English.
adjectiveMore slippery than something else; more likely to slide or cause someone to slide.
- More likely to slide or cause sliding.
"The road becomes slippier after the rain."
"The wet floor made the hallway slippier than usual."
"Drivers were warned that the mountain roads would become slippier overnight."
A small change in the weather can make a familiar path feel slippier than it did moments before.
Reviewed by Deb Chak, Editor. AI-assisted content curated by RJS Tech Solutions LLP.
Etymology of slippier
“Slippier” is formed from “slippery,” which in turn comes from the verb “slip,” ultimately related to the Old English “slippan,” meaning to slip or lose one's footing. The suffix “-pery” forms adjectives describing qualities or conditions, and the comparative ending “-er” is added to “slippery.” Related words such as “slipper,” “slippage,” and “slipstream” belong to the same broad lexical family associated with slipping and sliding.
How slippier is actually used
This is the comparative form of “slippery.” It is commonly used for surfaces, roads, and conditions that are difficult to walk or drive on safely.
Easily confused with slippier
“Slippier” is the comparative form of “slippery,” while “slippery” is the base adjective describing a surface or condition that causes sliding.