Characterized by small, frequent bites or actions, often implying a delicate or tentative approach to food, tasks, or situations. It suggests a hesitant or cautious manner, possibly involving a repetitive or fidgety quality. The word often describes the way one might eat small snacks, make small adjustments, or approach a problem. This behavior may arise from nervousness, a lack of confidence, or simply a preference for small, manageable portions. The term can also describe textures or consistencies that are easily broken into small pieces or require little effort to consume, implying a pleasingly delicate or easily consumed quality. It creates an image of something being taken little by little, hinting at an inherent interest or curiosity.
Nibbly meaning with examples
- The squirrel, perched on the bird feeder, took nibbly bites of the sunflower seeds, its tiny paws holding onto the metal rim. The sound of each bite was barely audible in the morning stillness, suggesting a slow and cautious consumption of the treat that filled the small animal with content.
- Lost in thought, the child took nibbly little bites of their sandwich, each one barely bigger than a pea. Their mind seemed far away, absorbed in a secret game of imagination, the sandwich only a secondary concern amidst their internal world. This made a delightful and amusing moment.
- The artist made nibbly adjustments to the painting's highlights, delicately brushing in tiny strokes to achieve the desired luminosity. It took hours to perfect but the details, the way the light hit it and the detail, were beautiful to the eye.
- Feeling anxious about the interview, she found herself taking nibbly sips of her coffee, her hands trembling slightly. Each sip served as a brief distraction from the overwhelming wave of anticipation.
- The new cookie recipe called for nibbly pieces of chocolate, creating a delightful textural contrast with the soft dough. The cookie's crumbly texture was made even better by the bites of chocolate.