English Reference

Word

zipper

Phoneticszip·per, stress on the first syllable

US/ˈzɪpɝ/

UK/zˈɪpɐ/

Countable noun

Definition

n. a device with two rows of metal or plastic teeth that you pull together to close a bag or clothes.

n. a fastening device consisting of two flexible tracks of interlocking teeth that are joined or separated by a sliding tab.

Examples

“The zipper on my jacket is stuck.”

“She pulled the zipper up to her chin to stay warm in the cold wind.”

“While buttons were the standard for centuries, the invention of the zipper revolutionized the garment industry by providing a faster and more secure method of closure.”

Examples

simple

“The zipper on my jacket is stuck.”

contextual

“She pulled the zipper up to her chin to stay warm in the cold wind.”

complex

“While buttons were the standard for centuries, the invention of the zipper revolutionized the garment industry by providing a faster and more secure method of closure.”

Usage

Commonly used in American English; the British equivalent is 'zip'.

Word family

NOUN

Zipper(A2)

Domains

MilitaryProgramming

This entry

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.A2 KeyIELTSIELTSInternational English Language Testing SystemThe 0–9 band test co-owned by the British Council, IDP, and Cambridge. Used for university entry, work, and migration.3.0–4.0TOEFL 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: 2.0–2.524–43TOEICTOEICTest of English for International CommunicationETS's workplace English test, big in Japan and Korea. Listening & Reading scores 10–990 and tops out at C1.225–549EikenEikenTest in Practical English ProficiencyThe English proficiency test from the Eiken Foundation of Japan, widely taken by Japanese students. Grades run from 5 to 1, with Pre-1 and Pre-2 between them.Pre-2
Frequency
Frequent
Level
A2 · Elementary
Updated

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English Reference