The expression “coffee break” was first attested in 1952 in glossy magazine advertisements by the Pan-American Coffee Bureau.
NIGHLY
Etymology
Adverb
nighly (comparative more nighly, superlative most nighly)
(archaic) nearly
Source: Wiktionary
Nigh"ly, adv.
Definition: In a near relation in place, time, degree, etc.; within a little; almost. [Obs.] A cube and a sphere ... nighly of the same bigness. Locke.
NIGH
Nigh, a. [Compar. Nigher; superl. Nighest, or Next (.] Etym: [OE. nigh, neigh, neih, AS. neáh, n; akin to D. na, adv., OS. nah, a., OHG. nah, G. nah, a., nach to, after, Icel. na (in comp.) nigh, Goth. n, n, adv., nigh. Cf. Near, Neighbor, Next.]
1. Not distant or remote in place or time; near. The loud tumult shows the battle nigh. Prior.
2. Not remote in degree, kindred, circumstances, etc.; closely allied; intimate. "Nigh kinsmen." Knolles. Ye ... are made nigh by the blood of Christ. Eph. ii. 13.
Syn.
– Near; close; adjacent; contiguous; present; neighboring.
Nigh, adv. Etym: [AS. neáh, n. See Nigh, a.]
1. In a situation near in place or time, or in the course of events; near. He was sick, nigh unto death. Phil. ii. 27. He drew not nigh unheard; the angel bright, Ere he drew nigh, his radiant visage turned. Milton.
2. Almost; nearly; as, he was nigh dead.
Nigh, v. t. & i.
Definition: To draw nigh (to); to approach; to come near. [Obs.] Wyclif (Matt. iii. 2).
Nigh, prep.
Definition: Near to; not remote or distant from. "was not this nigh shore" Shak.
Source: Webster’s Unabridged Dictionary 1913 Edition
Recent Word Finds
Word of the Day
12 May 2025
UNSEASONED
(adjective) not tried or tested by experience; “unseasoned artillery volunteers”; “still untested in battle”; “an illustrator untried in mural painting”; “a young hand at plowing”
Coffee Trivia
