Nippy vs. Zippy — What's the Difference?

A nippy was a waitress who worked in the J. Lyons & Co tea shops and cafés in London. Beginning in the late 19th century, a J. Lyons waitress was called a "Gladys".

Full of energy; lively.

Tending to nip

(informal) Energetic and lively.

Sharp or biting

(informal) Quick, speedy.

Bitingly cold

Quick and energetic;

Fast; speedy

Marked by lively action;

(informal) Of the weather, rather cold.

Inclined to nip; bitey.

Annoying; irritating

(Scotland) sharp in taste

(Scotland) curt

(Scotland) parsimonious

Pleasantly cold and invigorating; - of weather conditions.

Pleasantly cold and invigorating;