nigh
7 synonyms for nigh, grouped by meaning and by how common each one is.
Adverb — Close in time or space; almost — an old-fashioned or literary word for "near."
Synonyms
Everyday swaps
Common words most readers know — safe in any writing.
How to use nigh
The word patterns that sound natural to a native speaker.
drawing nigh
the end is nigh
Archaic or literary — rarely used in ordinary modern speech except in fixed phrases like "the end is nigh."
Etymology
From Old English nēah, meaning "near" — an older form of the modern word "near."
Full origin of nigh →Frequently asked questions
What does “nigh” mean?
The word “nigh” means close in time or space; almost — an old-fashioned or literary word for "near.". In plain terms, an old-fashioned way of saying "near" or "almost.".
How do you pronounce “nigh”?
“Nigh” is pronounced neye (/naɪ/ in IPA).
How do you use “nigh” in a sentence?
Here is “nigh” used in a sentence: “Winter was drawing nigh.”
What is another word for “nigh”?
Words with a similar meaning to “nigh” include near.
What part of speech is “nigh”?
“Nigh” is an adverb.
Where does the word “nigh” come from?
The word “nigh” comes from Old English. From Old English nēah, meaning "near" — an older form of the modern word "near.".
Is “nigh” a common word?
“Nigh” is an uncommon word in modern English, usually learned at around the C2 level.
