clip
6 synonyms and 0 antonyms for clip, grouped by meaning and by how common each one is.
Noun — A device used to fasten or hold things together.
Synonyms
Less common
Still standard English, but they carry more weight.
Rare, literary or technical
Precise, but they will stand out — check the sense before using one.
How to use clip
The word patterns that sound natural to a native speaker.
Etymology
From Old English clyppan, "to embrace or clasp" — the "cut" sense developed later, from the idea of gripping something to trim it.
Full origin of clip →Frequently asked questions
What does “clip” mean?
The word “clip” means a device used to fasten or hold things together. In plain terms, a fastener, a short cut piece of video, the act of cutting something short, or a fast pace.
How do you pronounce “clip”?
“Clip” is pronounced klihp (/klɪp/ in IPA).
How do you use “clip” in a sentence?
Here is “clip” used in a sentence: “She used a clip to keep the papers in order.”
What part of speech is “clip”?
Depending on how it is used, “clip” can be a noun and a verb.
Where does the word “clip” come from?
The word “clip” comes from Old English. From Old English clyppan, "to embrace or clasp" — the "cut" sense developed later, from the idea of gripping something to trim it.
Is “clip” a common word?
“Clip” is a fairly common word in modern English, usually learned at around the B1 level.
How many meanings does “clip” have?
“Clip” has 6 distinct senses listed in this dictionary. The most common is: a device used to fasten or hold things together.
What is the difference between a 'clip' and a 'clasp'?
A 'clip' is a device used to fasten or hold things together, often with a spring or bent metal, such as a paper clip or hair clip. A 'clasp' typically refers to an interlocking fastener that snaps shut, as on a necklace or bag. Clips generally grip by pressure, while clasps lock in place.
What is the difference between a 'clip' and a 'pin'?
A 'clip' holds items together by gripping them between two surfaces without piercing them. A 'pin' usually has a sharp point that pushes through material to hold it. So a clip fastens papers by squeezing, while a pin fastens fabric by passing through it.
What are common types of 'clip'?
Common clips include the paper clip, the bulldog or binder clip for thicker documents, and the hair clip for holding hair in place. In each case, the clip fastens or holds things together, and the word can also be used as a verb, as in 'clip the pages together.'