Clipper

Part of Speech

Noun

Pronunciation

/ˈklɪpər/

Definitions

• Noun: A type of fast sailing ship, especially one with a sharp bow and large sails, used primarily in the 19th century for trade or passenger travel.
• Noun: A tool used for cutting or trimming, especially hair, nails, or plants, often referring to scissors or specialized cutting tools.
• Noun: A person or thing that moves quickly, often used in the context of athletes, vehicles, or animals that move swiftly.

Usage Examples

• "The clipper ship raced across the ocean, its sails full in the wind."
• "She used a pair of clippers to trim her hair."
• "The horse was a clipper, easily outrunning the others in the race."

Etymology

The word "clipper" comes from the verb "clip," meaning to cut or trim, combined with the suffix "-er," indicating a person or thing that performs an action. The term originally referred to a type of fast, sharp ship, likely because it was "clipped" through the water. Over time, it extended to tools used for cutting and, later, to describe anything that moves quickly.

Synonyms

• Scissors
• Trimmer
• Sailing ship
• Fast ship
• Speedster

Antonyms

• Slowpoke
• Slug
• Snail
• Leisurely

Translations

Regional Pronunciation Variations

• American English: /ˈklɪpər/
• British English: /ˈklɪpə/
• Australian English: /ˈklɪpər/ (similar to American English)

Historical Usage

The term "clipper" originally referred to a type of fast sailing vessel used in the 19th century, particularly in the trade of goods such as tea, spices, and opium. Clippers were designed for speed, often at the expense of cargo space, and became particularly famous for their role in the California Gold Rush. As technology progressed, the term was also applied to tools for cutting or trimming, and later to any object or person noted for speed.

Cultural Nuances

The clipper ship holds a particular place in maritime history, symbolizing an era of rapid global trade and exploration. In modern times, the word "clipper" can also evoke a sense of nostalgia for a time when speed was a luxury and the sea was the main conduit for global commerce. In other uses, such as clippers for cutting, the tool is commonly associated with grooming and personal care, especially for trimming hair or nails. The term "clipper" is also used to describe fast animals, such as racehorses, who move swiftly and with grace.

More Information

The term "clipper" has evolved significantly over time. While its origins are linked to fast ships, today it is more commonly associated with tools used for cutting, especially in hairdressing and personal grooming. The clipper ship remains a symbol of the age of sail, a time when speed was vital for long-distance travel and trade. Modern usage of the term has diversified into other domains where speed and efficiency are important, from tools to racehorses and even colloquial references to people or things that move quickly.