nip and tuck

adjective or adverb

ˌnip-ən(d)-ˈtək How to pronounce nip and tuck (audio)
Synonyms of nip and tucknext
: being so close that the lead or advantage shifts rapidly from one opponent to another

Synonyms of nip and tuck

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Examples of nip and tuck in a Sentence

the race was nip and tuck to the very end, with the judges needing to look at photos of the finish three times
Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
An entire industry awaits to nip and tuck us. — James Rainey, Los Angeles Times, 11 Feb. 2026 It’s long been known that stars of the Real Housewives franchise love to get a little nip and tuck. — Mathew Rodriguez, Them., 17 Nov. 2025 Suzuki’s given the latest car a nip and tuck, without distorting its cute image. — Matthew MacConnell, Forbes.com, 16 July 2025 Like many who undergo plastic surgery for the first time, Mae was shocked by how much of an impact the intense nip and tuck had on her body. — Michelle Lee, PEOPLE, 7 Apr. 2026 See All Example Sentences for nip and tuck

Word History

First Known Use

1832, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of nip and tuck was in 1832

Rhymes for nip and tuck

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Browse Nearby Words

nipa
nip and tuck
nipa palm
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Cite this Entry

“Nip and tuck.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/nip%20and%20tuck. Accessed 8 Jul. 2026.

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Kids Definition

nip and tuck

adjective or adverb
ˌnip-ən-ˈtək How to pronounce nip and tuck (audio)
: so close that the advantage shifts rapidly from one contestant to another
Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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