I. ˈnib noun
( -s )
Etymology: probably alteration of neb
1. : bill , beak , neb
2.
a. : the sharpened point of a quill pen
b. : each of the two divisions of a pen point
c. : a pen point (as of gold or steel) intended for insertion into a holder
3. : a small pointed or projecting part: as
a. : the scorer of an auger bit
b. : the tip of a caliper or a scriber
c. : a sharp tip (as a diamond) on a cutting tool
d. : a small lug (as on a roofing tile)
e. : the tongue of a buckle
f. : tooth 3e
4. dialect England
a. : one of the handles which project from a scythe snath
b. : one of the shafts on the pole of a wagon
5.
a. : a cacao seed with germ removed
b. : coffee bean
6.
a. : a tiny knot or lump (as in raw silk or wool or in a woven or knitted fabric)
b. : a small lump or particle in a film (as of paint or varnish)
c. : irregularly twisted or lumpy leaves of oolong tea
II. transitive verb
( nibbed ; nibbed ; nibbing ; nibs )
: to furnish with a nib ; especially : to mend the point of (a pen)
III. verb
Etymology: probably by shortening
dialect chiefly England : nibble