Synonyms of Old Nicknext
used as a name of the devil

Examples of Old Nick in a Sentence

he gave me a look that would scare Old Nick
Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Jimmy refers to the Devil, his alleged father, by the more casual moniker Old Nick. Justin Chang, New Yorker, 16 Jan. 2026 Sir Jimmy is a psychopath who believes that the voice in his head belongs to his father, Old Nick (an archaic name for the Devil). Louis Peitzman, Vulture, 15 Jan. 2026

Word History

First Known Use

circa 1643, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of Old Nick was circa 1643

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Cite this Entry

“Old Nick.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/Old%20Nick. Accessed 3 Feb. 2026.

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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