nibble

Everyday

1. To eat something by taking very small bites. tree →
2. Of animals or fish: to bite gently: «A fish nibbled my toe». tree →
3. (noun) A small bite: «take a nibble». tree →
4. (nibbles, UK informal) Small snacks at a party, like crisps and nuts. tree →
5. Nibble can also be a fond pet name for someone you love, as in "my nibble darling". tree →

In the lessons

In stories and science lessons about animals: mice, rabbits and hamsters nibble with their sharp front teeth (rodent teeth keep growing). In fishing: «a nibble on the line». In everyday life and party talk: «nibbles and drinks».

Examples

• The mouse nibbled the cheese. tree →
• My rabbit nibbles carrots all day. tree →
• She nibbled her biscuit slowly. tree →
• I felt a fish nibble my toe in the sea. tree →
• Can I have a nibble of your chocolate? tree →
• Mum put out some nibbles for the guests. tree →
• The caterpillar nibbled holes in the leaf. tree →
• "Come to me, my nibble darling!" said he. tree →

Note

Regular verb: nibbled. Double «b». «Nibble» is a small, slow bite; «gulp» and «gobble» are big and fast. «Nibbles» (UK) = party snacks.