fillip

American  

[fil-uhp] / ˈfɪl əp /

noun

1. an act or instance of striking something with the nail of a finger snapped from the end of a thumb; a smart tap or stroke.

2. anything that tends to rouse, excite, or revive; a stimulus.

   Praise is an excellent fillip for waning ambition.

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verb (used with object)

1. to strike with a fillip.

2. to tap or strike smartly.

3. to drive by or as by a fillip.

   Anticipation filliped his passion.

verb (used without object)

1. to make a fillip with the fingers.

fillip British  

/ ˈfɪlɪp /

noun

1. something that adds stimulation or enjoyment

2. the action of holding a finger towards the palm with the thumb and suddenly releasing it outwards to produce a snapping sound

3. a quick blow or tap made by a finger snapped in this way

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verb

1. (tr) to stimulate or excite

2. (tr) to strike or project sharply with a fillip

3. (intr) to make a fillip

Etymology

Origin of fillip

First recorded in 1525–35; late Middle English filip, fylippe, philippe “to make a signal or sound with thumb and right forefinger”; expressive word of uncertain origin

Example Sentences

In this backdrop, the Amazon and Microsoft investments provide a much-needed fillip - yet it remains worth asking where India truly stands in the global AI race.

From BBC

While that would be a nice fillip for the new Mekies-led Red Bull, it would not be an indication that their problems were behind them.

From BBC

The 25-year-old Swede gave European golf a huge fillip on Sunday by winning America's national championship, resisting the chasing pack on a tense final day.

From BBC

Whether this potential blockbuster gives a fillip to the lacklustre IPO market remains to be seen, after some high-profile public debuts this year failed to impress.

From Reuters

India's successful mission last month to land a spacecraft on the moon is another factor that feeds into the country's feel-good image and gives Modi a fillip, they said.

From Reuters