# Nicks

/ˈnɪks/ (US) · /nˈɪks/ (UK) · CEFR B2 · Noun

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/nicks
Updated: 2026-08-15

## Definition

small cuts or marks on the surface of something. You often see these on old furniture or after shaving your face.

For teachers: small notches, chips, or shallow cuts on the surface or edge of an object. Often refers to minor damage on wood, metal, or skin.

## Examples

- The old table has several nicks on its legs.
- After years of heavy use, the kitchen counter was covered in small nicks and scratches from sharp knives.
- The antique dealer noted several minor nicks along the bevelled edge of the mirror, though they did not significantly detract from the piece's overall value.

## Usage notes

- Usually appears in the plural form when referring to surface damage.

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From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.