clipper

noun

clip·​per ˈkli-pər 

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

Yeah, that’s going to be about as effective as using nail clippers to mow your lawn. — Brian Moylan, Vulture, 24 July 2026

Roll the Tape In the age of clippers, a politician who can deliver a strong message or moment in one to two minutes will inevitably draw lots of attention. — David A. Graham, The Atlantic, 24 July 2026

More than improving access to short-form brand campaigns, Amirzadeh centered Clip Tech as a multi-platform clipper network, taking advantage of a growing aspect of the space. — Matthew Kayser, USA Today, 22 July 2026

Because your backyard shed will likely be home to mowers, clippers, lumber, and other large items, the fact that the doors open wide makes moving stuff in and out of the space much easier. — Shea Simmons, Southern Living, 29 June 2026

Word History

First Known Use

14th century, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Phrases Containing clipper

• Alberta clipper

Rhymes for clipper

• chipper
• dipper
• flipper
• gripper
• kipper
• nipper
• ripper
• shipper
• skipper
• slipper
• stripper
• tipper

Kids Definition

clipper

noun

clip·​per ˈklip-ər 

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