1
: bill, beak
2
a
: the sharpened point of a quill pen
b
: pen point
also : each of the two divisions of a pen point
3
: a small pointed or projecting part

Examples of nib in a Sentence

a finch cracking seeds in its nib make sure the nib has been sharpened before you try to cut anything
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.
The addition of cocoa nibs and honey brings deep moisture, leaving hair softer and more manageable after each use. Jailynn Taylor, Allure, 1 Sep. 2025 The palate shows notes of cassis, coca nib and black cherry. Katie Kelly Bell, Forbes.com, 26 Aug. 2025 The applicator was a flexible plastic nib rather than a cushioned tip, which allowed for precise application but sometimes went on a bit unevenly. The Glamour Editors, Glamour, 21 July 2025 That curl makes the nib of a fountain pen dry and scratchy. Benjamin Hale june 23, Literary Hub, 23 June 2025 See All Example Sentences for nib

Word History

Etymology

probably alteration of neb

First Known Use

1583, in the meaning defined at sense 2a

Time Traveler
The first known use of nib was in 1583

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Nib.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/nib. Accessed 12 Sep. 2025.

Kids Definition

nib

noun
1
2
: the point of a pen
3
: a part that is pointed or sticks out

More from Merriam-Webster on nib

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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