A nipper in Australian slang is typically used to refer to a young person or child. It is most often used affectionately and as a term of endearment. It is likely derived from the Australian colloquialism word “nipperkin” which dates back to the early 19th century and referred to a small boat capable of carrying a single person.
It has since evolved to be shorthand for the word “apprentice” when the skill was to be passed down from one generation to the next. In modern times, the term “nipper” is typically used to refer to children involved in activities such as surfing and lifesaving, both of which are quite popular in Australia.
It can also be a humorous way of referring to a child or teenager without implying anything about their age.
What is the term nipper?
Nipper is a slang term which can refer to either a youngster or the person responsible for closing the doors of a railway carriage during a train journey. The term is believed to have originated in the mid 19th century, when it was used to refer to young boys who were often employed by railway companies to guard the brakes, coupling links and signals of a railway train.
The boys were called nippers because of their habit of using tongs to grip the links. The term was later used to refer to the persons who were responsible for closing the carriage doors on a train. In modern usage, the term is often used to refer to younger children or young adults but can also be used in a wider, informal context as a term of endearment.
Why is a child called a nipper?
The term ‘nipper’ to describe a young child is a very old-fashioned idiom, and its origin is not clear. It is mostly used in British English and is thought to have been in use since the 1800s.
One possible explanation for the term dates back to the fishing industry. ‘Nipper’ was a term used to refer to someone who assisted a fisherman in heading and baiting lines. It was normally used to describe a small boy or person who could fit into tight spaces and be easily managed by the fisherman.
This could be seen as similar to a parent and their young child.
Another theory is that the term was derived from the word ‘nippers’, which is a type of tool used to trim wick in lamps – again, making reference to the small hands of a child. This theory may have also been inspired by nipping, which is the technique of gathering fabric between finger and thumb to fasten a stitch.
Another possible explanation is that the word ‘nipper’ came from the Middle English word ‘nyper’ which means to snatch or grab. This could be related to the typical behavior of an energetic child.
Ultimately, it’s unclear how the term ‘nipper’ became associated with a young child, but it is a delightful and nostalgic way of describing a small person.
What is the definition of a nipper boy?
A nipper boy is an apprentice to a leatherworker, saddler, or cobbler who serves in a menial capacity. The term comes from the tool they use to assist in cutting the leather, called a ‘nipper’. The nipper boys had to run errands, clean the shop, deliver goods, and make deliveries.
They often worked long hours for very little pay. As a result, the position was considered undesirable for most people.
Where did Nipper come from?
Nipper was an English Jack Russell Terrier created by artist Francis Barraud. Nipper was born in 1884 in Bristol, England and originally named “Nipper”. Nipper was the eldest of 4 owned by Mark Henry Barraud.
When Mark died, Francis received the dogs and Nipper became his favorite. Francis Barraud painted Nipper in 1898, with the idea of producing an image for a phonograph advertising poster. He was inspired by a photograph of Nipper staring intently into the phonograph horn, apparently wondering where the voice was coming from.
The painting was titled “His Master’s Voice” and is now an iconic symbol in the phonograph industry.
What is a lollipop boy?
A lollipop boy or girl is someone who is employed to help children cross the road safely. They are generally seen at busy intersections wearing a fluorescent yellow vest and holding an octagonal shaped red and white sign known as a “lollipop.
” The “lollipop” has become a well-known symbol of the role, which is officially known as a School Crossing Patrol Officer.
These officers are employed to carry out their duties outside of school hours, and are most commonly found near primary and secondary schools. They are trained to assess road conditions and determine the safest places for children to cross the road.
They also monitor the speed of approaching traffic and when necessary, stop vehicles to allow pedestrians to cross.
Lollipop people offer a much needed service for local communities and ensure the safety of all pedestrians when crossing the roads.
How old do you have to be to be a nipper?
Nippers are junior members of Surf Life Saving Clubs, and the age criteria for becoming a Nipper varies depending on the individual Surf Life Saving Club. Generally, Nippers must be aged between 5-14 years old, however some Clubs may allow children as young as 4 to become members.
In order to become a Nipper, you must complete registration through the relevant Surf Life Saving Club, and pay relevant membership fees. Furthermore, when registering children must provide evidence of their age, as some clubs may not allow children over 14 to join as Nippers.
As a result of Covid 19, many clubs may have implemented additional registration requirements.
Nippers is an important program for children to learn about water safety and beach awareness. Through Nippers, children learn the importance of sun safety and respecting the beach environment, as well as the ability to spot rips and other beach hazards.
Furthermore, Nippers also teach children to develop swimming skills, knowledge around rescue and resuscitation, and basic first aid. It is a great program for ensuring the safety of children on the beach.
How much do nippers get paid?
Nippers can be paid in a variety of ways, depending on the position and organization. Generally, nippers will receive payment for their work. Volunteers, in particular, may not receive pay, but may receive other benefits, such as discounts on gear, gear credit, and the experience of working and learning new skills.
For those in paid positions, such as lifeguards, instructors, and supervisors, pay can vary depending on experience, location, and employer. In the United States, lifeguards typically receive an hourly wage anywhere from $9 to $17 per hour.
Additionally, some organizations may offer bonuses for lifeguard certifications, performance, and length of service. For other nipper positions, such as instructors and nipper supervisors, wages vary widely based on experience, with different positions having different pay ranges.
Generally, instructors and supervisors can make upwards of $15 to $30 per hour.
Overall, the amount nippers get paid will depend on the individual situation, but there are usually some form of pay and/or benefits associated with their roles.
What do you call a hot girl in Australia?
And terms like this are often used in a derogatory manner. Generally, a person of any gender should be referred to by their name rather than a judgement on their appearance. If one were to use a term for a hot girl in Australia, a suitable term might be ‘travel-worthy beauty’.
What do Australians call boys?
In Australia, boys are often referred to as ‘blokes’. This term is affectionately and jokingly used to describe men of all ages, typically in a friendly and informal way. Other words and phrases used to refer to boys in Australia include ‘mate’, ‘buddy’, ‘young fella’, and ‘kid’.
For convenience and depending on the context, Australians might also simply use ‘he’ or ‘him’. It is common for friends to call each other ‘mate’ and ‘buddy’ and they use the terms cheerfully and playfully in most social situations.
Younger males are often referred to as ‘kiddo’ or ‘young fella’ which can also be used in a humorous or endearing way. In a more serious context, such as a classroom or speaking with a stranger, ‘he’ or ‘him’ would be more appropriate.
In some remote parts of Australia, boys are affectionately referred to as ‘cobber’, and this term is becoming increasingly more common in other areas.
How do you say Beautiful girl in slang?
A common way to say “beautiful girl” in slang is “dimepiece. ” This term is used as an informal compliment to let a woman know that she looks great. Additionally, “gorge” or “bae” can be used as options to let a girl know that she looks stunning.
What can I say instead of pretty girl?
Instead of saying “pretty girl,” you could say things like “lovely lady,” “gorgeous woman,” “beautiful person,” or “stunning individual. ” Depending on the context, you could also try words like “ravishing,” “resplendent,” or “alluring.
” If you want to express that you think a girl is cute without using the word “pretty,” you could use words like “adorable,” “darling,” or “charming. ” Additionally, if you want to describe a girl of any age in a positive and kind way, you could say things like “wonderful,” “magnificent,” or “radiant.
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