clipper

noun

clip·​per ˈkli-pər How to pronounce clipper (audio)
1
: one that clips something
2
: an implement for clipping especially hair, fingernails, or toenails
usually used in plural
3
: something that moves swiftly: such as
a
: a fast sailing ship
especially : one with long slender lines, an overhanging bow, tall masts, and a large sail area
b
or clipper system : a fast-moving, low-pressure weather system : alberta clipper
… but that's just a taste of things to come as that clipper system moves across the Lakes.Nick Walker

Examples of clipper in a Sentence

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.
At his new prison, inmates can buy their own razors and nail clippers from the canteen. Hannah Wiley, Los Angeles Times, 1 May 2025 One unique feature of OneNote's web clipper is a highlighter. PC Magazine, 14 Apr. 2025 While some barbers are seen wielding buzzing electric clippers, others are freestyling with just a pair of hairdressing scissors and, hopefully, a steady hand. Nicole Mowbray, CNN Money, 30 Apr. 2025 From the deck of the American clipper ship Shooting Star, sailors watched a mysterious and unsettling scene. Margherita Bassi, Smithsonian Magazine, 15 Apr. 2025 See All Example Sentences for clipper

Word History

First Known Use

14th century, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Time Traveler
The first known use of clipper was in the 14th century

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Clipper.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/clipper. Accessed 20 May. 2025.

Kids Definition

clipper

noun
clip·​per ˈklip-ər How to pronounce clipper (audio)
1
: one that clips
2
plural : a device for clipping
hair clippers
3
: a fast sailing ship with usually three tall masts and large square sails

More from Merriam-Webster on clipper

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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