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noun

limey

LEYE-mee
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Limey (noun) means Informal, often used in American English: a British person. Example: “The American sailors nicknamed their British counterparts "limeys.”

noun
1
Informal, often used in American English: a British person.
"The American sailors nicknamed their British counterparts "limeys.""

How to use limey

Learner’s notes

In plain EnglishA slang (sometimes mildly disparaging) American term for a British person.

When to use it

Informal and can come across as a jibe — use with care.

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Word forms

Plural
limeys
Comparative
limier
Superlative
limiest
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Fill the gap

Can you complete this real example?

The American sailors nicknamed their British counterparts "_____."

Etymology

Shortened from "lime-juicer," a reference to the citrus juice British Royal Navy sailors were issued to prevent scurvy.

pom

Related words

Rhymes for limey

See all rhymes for limey →

Frequently asked questions

What does “limey” mean?
The word “limey” means informal, often used in American English: a British person. In plain terms, a slang (sometimes mildly disparaging) American term for a British person.
How do you pronounce “limey”?
“Limey” is pronounced LEYE-mee (/ˈlaɪmi/ in IPA).
How do you use “limey” in a sentence?
Here is “limey” used in a sentence: “The American sailors nicknamed their British counterparts "limeys.".”
What part of speech is “limey”?
“Limey” is a noun.

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