Word
sip
US/ˈsɪp/
UK/sˈɪp/
Definitions
01to drink slowly
B1 · Intermediate
v. to drink something in very small amounts at a time.
v. to consume a liquid by taking small mouthfuls, typically to savour the flavour or because the liquid is hot.
“She sat by the fire and slowly sipped her hot chocolate.”
“The connoisseur sipped the vintage wine, allowing the complex notes of oak and dark fruit to linger on his palate before swallowing.”
Usage
Often used with 'at' or as a transitive verb taking a direct object.
02a small mouthful
B1 · Intermediate Countable noun
n. a very small amount of a drink that you take into your mouth.
n. a small quantity of liquid taken into the mouth at one time.
“He took a sip of the water to clear his throat before speaking.”
“After just one sip of the overly bitter coffee, she decided to add a generous amount of sugar and cream.”
Domains
- Exam level
- CambridgeCambridgeCambridge English QualificationsThe exam suite from Cambridge University Press & Assessment, from A1 Movers up to C2 Proficiency. The benchmark names double as CEFR labels.B1 PreliminaryIELTSIELTSInternational English Language Testing SystemThe 0–9 band test co-owned by the British Council, IDP, and Cambridge. Used for university entry, work, and migration.4.0–5.0TOEFL iBTTOEFL iBTTest of English as a Foreign Language, Internet-Based TestETS's academic English test, the standard route for US university admissions. Scored 0–120, with a 1–6 scale since 2026.1–6 scale: 3.0–3.544–71TOEICTOEICTest of English for International CommunicationETS's workplace English test, big in Japan and Korea. Listening & Reading scores 10–990 and tops out at C1.550–784
- Frequency
- Frequent
- Level
- B1 · Intermediate
- Updated
- アルファベット
- 読み方の一覧 →
QR code
englishreference.com/q/sip