fillip

[fil-uhp]

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.

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

/ 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

verb

1. (tr) to stimulate or excite

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

3. (intr) to make a fillip

Word History and Origins

Origin of fillip¹

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

Word History and Origins

Origin of fillip¹

C15 philippe , of imitative origin

Example Sentences

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

But as the US aims to build resilience against China’s semiconductor industry – vital for modern technology – the deal gives a renewed fillip to India.

From BBC

They are a morale-lifting fillip for the party of the new arrival, and debilitating for the party the MP has left, particularly when it's from the governing to the main opposition party.

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