nifty

American  

[nif-tee] / ˈnɪf ti /

adjective

niftier, niftiest

1. attractively stylish or smart.

   a nifty new dress for Easter.

2. very good; fine; excellent.

   a nifty idea.

3. substantial; sizable.

   We sold the car for a nifty profit.

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noun

plural

nifties

1. something nifty, as a clever remark or joke.

nifty British  

/ ˈnɪftɪ /

adjective

1. pleasing, apt, or stylish

2. quick, agile

   he's nifty on his feet

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Other Word Forms

• niftily adverb
• niftiness noun

Etymology

Origin of nifty

An Americanism dating back to 1860–65; of obscure origin

Example Sentences

However, some Gulf Coast shippers have devised a nifty Jones Act work-around that involves a circuitous route through the Bahamas.

From The Wall Street Journal

She got a nifty long pass from her teammate Taylor Heise and saw space.

From The Wall Street Journal

Layton maintains a simmering tension throughout, demonstrating a commitment to gritty SoCal locations, a few bang-up action sequences and nifty reveals.

From Los Angeles Times

The Chargers’ defense did an impressive job of putting the clamps on New England’s offense — some nifty runs by Maye notwithstanding — but the offense couldn’t turn those efforts into points.

From Los Angeles Times

China's insatiable appetite for durians has shaped up to be a nifty diplomatic tool.

From BBC

Related Words

• dandy
• excellent
• neat
• stylish
• terrific