What does zipped mean?
Zipped is chiefly used in two related but distinct ways. As an adjective, it describes something closed or secured with a zipper, as in “a zipped jacket” or “a bag zipped shut.” In informal British and American English, it can also describe speed and energy: a “zipped” performance is fast, lively, and full of momentum. As the past tense and past participle of zip, the verb means to fasten a zipper or to move rapidly. “She zipped up her coat” describes the act of securing the fastening, while “the runner zipped around the track” describes quick movement. The form is therefore more specific than the general idea of movement or closure: one sense points to a physical fastener, while the other evokes sudden, energetic motion. In ordinary writing, the fastening sense is the most neutral, whereas the “very fast” sense is mainly conversational. Understanding both senses helps explain why the same word can describe a closed pocket and an unusually lively performance.
Fastened or closed with a zipper; informally, very fast or energetic.
"The team gave a zipped performance in the second half."
The sense meaning very fast or energetic is informal and more common in speech than in formal writing.
The past tense and past participle of zip: to fasten with a zipper or to move very quickly.
"He zipped through the entrance and took his seat."
The same word can describe a pocket closed with a zipper and a performance moving at full speed.
Reviewed by Deb Chak, Editor. AI-assisted content curated by RJS Tech Solutions LLP.
Where does zipped come from?
Zipped is the English past-tense and participial form of zip. The word zip was used in the nineteenth century for rapid movement and for a sharp, sudden sound, and the later sense referring to a fastener developed in connection with the word zipper in the early twentieth century. The two meanings are therefore historically related through ideas of quick movement and closure, while zipper and its derivatives belong to the same word family.
Related word forms
How zipped is actually used
The fastening sense is neutral and common in both British and American English. The sense meaning very fast or energetic is informal and often expresses admiration or playful approval.