clipper - Master This Word
Master this word with our 5-step learning method – Learn English in English
clipper Word Meanings
- a type of sailing ship with a fast hull
- a device for cutting or trimming
- someone or something that clips or shortens
clipper Example Sentences
Example sentences are the start of understanding. Don't rush to memorize. First feel how the word works in a sentence.
clipper Phonetic & Pronunciation
UK
/ˈklɪp.ə/
US
/ˈklɪp.ɚ/
clipper Word Etymology
Root: 'clip' (to cut) + suffix '-er' (agent). Origin: from Middle English 'clipper', influenced by Old French 'clipper', which derived from Latin 'clippare'. Memory: Imagine a swift ship gliding over water, its sails cutting and clipping through the waves.
Note 1: These definitions and etymologies are not standard dictionary definitions, but extended explanations provided to help with memorization and understanding of the actual application of words. Through this background information, we strive to make words more vivid and easier to understand, and help you remember their meanings in real life.
Note 2: LexiTalk designs the learning flow around the linguistics principle of “Comprehensible Input.” When learners encounter material that is slightly above their level but still understandable from context, the brain naturally absorbs the language. That’s why we keep every word inside authentic contexts, using examples and associations to help you understand it and use it flexibly.
Read the FAQ explanation of Comprehensible InputReal Context
Clipper is a versatile English noun with three main senses. Historically a clipper was a fast sailing ship with a long, sharp hull designed to travel quickly between ports. In everyday use it also names a device that cuts or trims, such as hair clippers or nail clippers, highlighting efficiency and precision. A third sense refers to a person or thing that clips or shortens something, for example a clipper trimming hedges or a tool that clips a video. The memory image is a swift ship gliding through the waves, sails and rigging making clean, swift cuts and clear progress.
Usage Reminders
- Use clipper for tools and ships with care
- Make hair clippers or nail clippers plural when talking about the devices
- Avoid using clipper for the act of clipping; use clip to describe cutting actions
- Remember clipper ship is historical, not common today
- When describing something that shortens, use clip or shorten rather than clipper
Common Misconceptions
- Clipper always refers to a hair cutting device
- Clipper ships are common today
- Clipping and clipping with a clipper are the same as clipping with scissors
- Clipper is the plural form of clip
- Clipper can only describe people who clip things
Thinking Differences
Explain to an English speaker: English users often rely on clippers for both tools and ships, and distinguish clipper from clip; learners may confuse clipper with scissors or treat it as a generic cutter. Emphasize historical vs modern senses and collocations like hair clippers, clipper ship, and video clip.
Learning Tips
- memorize that clipper has three meanings
- associate ship sense with 19th century shipping
- pair hair clippers with grooming contexts
- distinguish clipper from clip; clip is the act
- use clippers as plural for the devices
- practice with both nautical and tool vocab in short sentences
5-Step Learning Method - Learn English in English
Step 1: Meaning
What is the definition of 'clipper'?
A.A type of plant
B.A tool for cutting
C.A kind of fabric
D.A type of music
Step 2: Usage
Identify the sentence that uses 'clipper' correctly.
A.He used a clipper to trim his hair.
B.She played the clipper in the orchestra.
C.The clipper flew gracefully in the sky.
D.They bought a clipper to bake cookies.
Step 3: Similar Words
Which word is most similar to 'clipper'?
A.Computer
B.Pencil
C.Scissors
D.Chair
Step 4: Opposite Words
What is the opposite of 'clipper'?
A.Joiner
B.Stitch
C.Identifier
D.Baker
Step 5: Mastery
Can you think of a real-life context for the word 'clipper'?
A.A person needs a tool to cut their hair.
B.She bought new shoes for the party.
C.He enjoyed reading a novel about history.
D.They started a garden in their backyard.
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