nib

noun

ˈnib 

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

Synonyms of nib

• mouth
• beak
• muzzle
• mandible
• bill

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

Please do not leave without sampling the divine dessert of Caribbean coffee-chocolate delice with a hint of tonka beans and cacao nibs. — James Rampton, TheWeek, 9 July 2026

Save Cheese Rinds and Vegetable Trimmings Instead of giving that last nib of Parmesan or cured meat trimmings the heave-ho, use them to transform a stock, braise, soup, or sauce. — Randi Gollin, Martha Stewart, 16 June 2026

Each fountain pen is fitted with an 18-karat gold nib and is individually signed by the artist. — Nancy Olson, Forbes.com, 19 May 2026

Chia pudding is an excellent source of magnesium and fiber and can be topped with other blood pressure-friendly ingredients, like cacao nibs and berries. — Jillian Kubala, Health, 11 May 2026

Word History

Etymology

probably alteration of neb

First Known Use

1583, in the meaning defined at sense 2a

Rhymes for nib

• bib
• bibb
• crib
• gib
• glib
• jib
• lib
• mib
• rib
• sib
• squib
• imatinib

Kids Definition

nib

noun

ˈnib 

1

: bill entry 1 sense 1, beak

2

: the point of a pen

3

: a part that is pointed or sticks out