fillip
[ fil-uh p ]
/ ˈfɪl əp /
verb (used with object)
to strike with the nail of a finger snapped from the end of the thumb.
to tap or strike smartly.
to drive by or as by a fillip: Anticipation filliped his passion.
verb (used without object)
to make a fillip with the fingers.
noun
an act or instance of filliping; a smart tap or stroke.
anything that tends to rouse, excite, or revive; a stimulus: Praise is an excellent fillip for waning ambition.
Origin of fillip
1425–75; late Middle English
philippe to make a signal or sound with thumb and right forefinger; expressive word of uncertain orig; cf.
flip1
Words nearby fillip
fillet weld,
filleting,
filling,
filling defect,
filling station,
fillip,
fillipeen,
fillister,
fillister head,
fillmore,
filly
Example sentences from the Web for fillip
British Dictionary definitions for fillip
fillip
/ (ˈfɪlɪp) /
noun
something that adds stimulation or enjoyment
the action of holding a finger towards the palm with the thumb and suddenly releasing it outwards to produce a snapping sound
a quick blow or tap made by a finger snapped in this way
verb
(tr)
to stimulate or excite
(tr)
to strike or project sharply with a fillip
(intr)
to make a fillip
Word Origin for fillip
C15
philippe, of imitative origin