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Aug 9, 2023 · Meaning: To steal; or a state of disrepair; or a police station. Origin: Possibly derived from Old English “hnecan” meaning to slay or take someone’s life. Usage: “Someone nicked my bike.” or “My phone’s in the nick.” or “He’s down at the nick.”.
Words with specific British English meanings that have different meanings in American and/or additional meanings common to both languages (e.g. pants, cot) are to be found at List of words having different meanings in American and British English. When such words are herein used or referenced, they are marked with the flag [DM] (different meaning).
A glossary of British words that English speakers from outside of the UK may find confusing, and may think are slang or informal, but are standard English and a common part of the British vernacular. These Britishisms, also called Briticisms, won't be found in the general slang listings in this dictionary but are included here to assist in understanding the idiosyncrasies of the English language.
British definition: 1. belonging to or relating to the United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland or its…. Learn more.
The largest and most trusted free online dictionary for learners of British and American English with definitions, pictures, example sentences, synonyms, antonyms, word origins, audio pronunciation, and more. Look up the meanings of words, abbreviations, phrases, and idioms in our free English Dictionary.
Oct 15, 2023 · mean – miserly/ the opposite of generous – unkind/ nasty. medic – doctor/ internist – EMT/ paramedic/ military corpsman. mortuary – place for dead bodies (“morgue” in the US) – funeral home/ funeral parlour. nappy – kind of underpants for babies (“diaper” in British English) – an insulting word about Afro hair.
Jan 15, 2024 · The connection between the literal meaning of the term and this figurative usage may be rooted in the frustration of working with difficult or stubborn soil, similar to dealing with a troublesome person. Usage in British English. When used as a mild swear word, “sod” is often used in expressions of frustration, annoyance, or disbelief.
